Kangaroo Valley Voice - Lazyfish Technology

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 1Kangaroo Valley VoiceVolume 14 Issue 1 ISSN 1833-8402 Circulation 850 July 2008 $2Valley horseman waits on Olympic selectionStory page 7Inside your Valley Voice: clockwise from top left, Gallery opening,FYRE concert, Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre, Winter Dance,Winter Festival, Pathways, Bushwalk and Schools of the ValleyNews p1–24 S.E.C. Opening p25-28 Columns p30-43 Sport p45-47 Directory p48-50 W ot’s on p51

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 2KVVangarooalleyoicePublished byKangaroo ValleyVoice Incorporated.Registration #Y2627221Editorial“The joint is jumping”The monthly community newspaper of Kangaroo ValleyOffice BearersPresidentCarl LeddyTreasurerSally RobeySecretaryLarraine HahlosCommittee Win PalmerSheila YoungJoan BrayLaurie De VilleRay PerrineNancy PerrineEditorCarl LeddyAdvertising Manager Position availableJournalists Joan BrayJenelle BrangwinLiz AitkenRon BowerSports Report Position availableLegal Advisers A P Sparke & BroadEditorial Office.telephone (02)-4465 1621Kangaroo Valley Voice was originally established underthe Small Towns Program (an initiative of theDepartment of Business & Regional Development).K.V. Voice Inc. aims to support & develop the Valley’seconomic, social & communication infrastructure. TheCommittee & Assistants are all volunteers, who donatetheir time and expertise for the benefit of our readers.All Valley residents, clubs & organisations are invited toforward editorial submissions.The K.V. Voice is financially self sufficient due toincome received from local businesses and advertising.DISCLAIMERThe statements and opinions expressed in this publication aremade in good faith by Kangaroo Valley community members.K.V. Voice Inc., Committee, volunteers and contributors do nottake responsibility for any statements advertisement, notice,letter or opinions published. Such are published at the risk of thecontributor, who accepts liability for any intended publication. Allcontributors agree to indemnify the publisher and warrant thatthe material is accurate and is neither deceptive or misleading, inbreach of copyright, defamatory or in breach of any laws.PRINTED BY: Red Barron Printing, Bomaderry. NSWDISTRIBUTED BY: Australia Post.Graphics used in advertising courtesy of ClickArtIncredible 65,000 Image Pak © 1996, T/Maker Co.DEADLINESfor the August issue of the ‘VOICE’Advertising,Wot’s On , Calender& Sports ReportJuly 20, 2008Editorial SubmissionsJuly 22, 2008Please do not leave yoursubmission until the last day;being early is a great help to us.E-mail kvvoice@shoal.net.au44 651 621It must be the winter air that hasenergised the Valley in recent weeks,new life and spirit are supposed to arrivewith spring not this early.We start the fourteenth year of ourproduction of the Valley Voice with anissue matched only by one other in ourhistory.52 pages in all, buttressed by a major featurefor the opening of the long awaitedShoalhaven Entertainment Centre and someother spontaneous advertising to complementour regular, reliable monthly advertisers andthe first political advertisements in advance ofthe Council elections in September, allproviding the support for our regularcolumnists who seem to me to get better eachpublication.Major stories this month feature the hopes ofShane Rose to secure his place on theOlympic Equestrian team, a sadder note onthe passing of Gloriel Knox, credit againwhere it so largely due to the Selby familywho are contributing so much to the buildingof the extended pathways and an encouragingletter from a Nowra parent about the pleasurethey enjoyed as part of the FYRE Battle ofthe bands.June was the month for coming out with thesuccessful launching of The Gallery inKangaroo Valley, the revamping of theLazyfish offices, a great result for thePreschool with the Winter Dance and astunning performance by the a cappella groupThe Idea of North.The Wesley Smith’s deserve the Valleysthanks for continuing to provide such topclass entertainment.Coming up there is the 50th Anniversary ofCMRI which will likely be the first majorfunction of the soon to be re-opened Jing JoThai restaurant, which happens mid July.Joan Bray completes her major work in theLetters to the EditorAll letters must besigned by thewriter and giveboth business andhome phonenumbers soletters can beverified.Mail to :The Editorc/o Post OfficeKangaroo Valley.2577history of the schools in the Valley.It has been intensive but has provided muchinteresting reading.We publish a thoughtprovoking letter about the structure of oilpricing which also makes for interestingreading.Another initiative from the Tourist Associationsees the creation of a Winter Festival.Only one day and night, but with the merchantsof the Valley right behind it the omens are good.The organisers would like to see as manybuskers on the street as possible and encouragethe younsters to get to and make some oldfashioned Guys to be part of a bonfirecelebration of the festival.It is also pleasing to report the growing successof the WILDFYRE Festival and the increasingpopularity of the monthely markets at OsbornePark.As I said in the beginning there is a clear senseof more community participation in all of theactivities mentioned and which are part of thisgrand issue of our community paper.With the opening of the ShoalhavenEntertainment Centre and it’s well plannedevents program, (see page 28), there will clearlybe more opportunities for group bookings overthe hill and it is to be hoped that Valleyorganisers take the opportunity to considertravelling to venues such as the SEC or eventsin Bowral by bus, which will reduce the numberof cars on the road and strike some sort of blowagainst the growing impact of rising petrolprices.One last matter of some concern to me is theapparent unwillingness or inability of AustralianGovernments and the population to address theappalling situation in Zimbabwe, where theideals of democracy have been dealt a deathblow.What is happening is a farce of grotesqueproportions that is savaging the lives of manyordinary decent people.They say “our hands are tied”. I ask, why?Carl LeddyThe EditorHeritage v sewerageCopy of letter toThe General ManagerShoalhaven City CouncilPO Box 42Nowra NSW 2541Comment on Environmental Impact Statement –GHD April 2008for Kangaroo Valley Sewerage Scheme.Do we really value our Heritage when we acceptthat a Sewerage Scheme has to be sitedalongside the most important heritage house in(Continued on page 4)

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 3Vale Gloriel Knox (1927 - 2008)Gloriel Knox passed away peacefully atKarinya in Berry on 28th May 2008.She had made her home in KangarooValley for the past 20 years.She was well known in the village and in theChurch of the Good Shepherd.She loved her dogs and her angora goats andcared for them in a very loving way.Gloriel was a very caring person and spentmuch of her time and money reaching out tothose in need.Pathway progress reportIf you haven’t walked on it yet then giveit a go.The proposed Cycle/pathway is nowbecoming a reality thanks to so manyvolunteering to help with setting up andconcrete pours.We have constructed around 150 metres,hopefully even more by the time you read this,through the valiant efforts of a pool of energeticguys using hammers, nails (for the formwork)shovels rakes and a whole range of concretingtools Dave Selby has loaned us.The photos show Dave in his new supermanoeuvrable, rubber tracked, small but veryeffective back hoe.It certainly beats using amattock and shovel.If it wasn’t for his and Sharon’sgenerosity and the expertise ofDave and his team we wouldnot be anywhere near where weare now.It has been great to have morevolunteers come on board as weprogress.One of the concrete truckdrivers, who is a full timeconcreter, put on his gum bootsand made the concrete fly as hescreeded of for us and weworked like mad trying to keepahead of him. We thought wewere pretty good until heshowed us how it is done.He runs At’s concretingservice.If you are feeling disappointedthat you haven’t had time toShe had a prayer ministry for persecutedChristians around the world and her desire forjustice in our society saw her passing out the"how to vote cards" for the ChristianDemocrats.We discovered recently that she had spent twoyears of her life caring for the people in a RedIndian Reserve in Canada.Towards the end of her life she made plans torelocate to Alice Springs so that she couldminister to the Aboriginal people there.As a valued member of the Church of the GoodShepherd in Kangaroo Valley Gloriel was a fineexample of what being a Christian is all about.Her friends in the church were especiallyencouraged by her faith and witness, which wasdemonstrated when shewas diagnosed withcancer of the lung andliver - she remainedher cheerful and caringself to the end here onearth and at the sametime looking forwardto her eternal home inheaven.Bob Dunnand Bruno Henkehelp, don’t worry, as we still have alongway to go.We really appreciate the donations oftime, money and effort, large and small,which have been made to supplement theCouncil’s $20K. They will go a long wayin helping us to complete stage 1, asspecified on the Council’s plans.The plans were drafted by SCC using a $5KRTA grant.Please let Bryan Barger, Post Office,Margo Dryden 4465 1186 or myself4465 2041, 0402906807. if you can help inany way.Ron Bower.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 4Letters to the Editor (continued)(Continued from page 2)Kangaroo Valley, designed by renownedcolonial architect, John Horbury Hunt whoalso designed the Church of the GoodShepherd in Kangaroo Valley and the RoseBay Convent?After reading the Environmental ImpactStatement prepared by GHD Pty. Ltd. for theShoalhaven City Council I would say not.The Report concludes that the proposedScheme could be introduced without damagingour cultural heritage.Barrengarry House is valued for itsarchitecture, tree-lined approach and ruralvistas.However, the access road, storage dams andsewerage treatment works would all be visiblefrom the house.Views from the house are alreadycompromised by two large communicationstowers and electricity lines (refer Page 245)How much disturbance can be created aroundBarrengarry House before the peaceful ruralatmosphere is destroyed?The second area of concern relates to theHydrological Impact on Barrengarry Creek.When treated effluent needs to be dischargedinto Barrengarry Creek the natural flows of thecreek are only adequate to safely dilute theeffluent on 83 days in every 100 days.In other words it would be unsafe to releaseeffluent on 17 days in every 100 days becausecreek flows would be too low (refer Page159).These figures are based on average and do notgive an accurate impression of the number ofsafe and unsafe days to discharge during aperiod of drought i.e. during a drought thenumber of unsafe days would be much higher.Scientific predictions on global warmingindicate that we are going to have more extremeweather patterns i.e. more droughts and morefloods.My third area of concern relates to FloodEvents.Using the most recent Flood Study dataavailable, the GHD Report concludes that a 1 in20 year flood would inundate the treatedeffluent dam and release a maximum of28,000,000 litres of treated effluent intoBarrengarry Creek.However GHD conclude that this is not aproblem because the flood waters would dilutethe effluent (refer Page 164).I wouldn’t want to live downstream from theSewerage Treatment Works in a time of flood!Finally, why did Council choose the siteadjacent to Barrengarry House as its preferredsite?Answer – Cost Savings!The total capital cost of the Barrengarry site of$11,149,000 (which includes operating andmaintenance costs for 20 years) is $655,000cheaper than on the alternative site (offKangaroo Valley Road) which is costed at$11,804,000 (refer page xiii CH 2M Hill ReportJune 2006)Spread over 20 years this represents a costsaving of $32,750 per year.Why destroy the ambience of BarrengarryHouse for such a paltry sum?Our cultural heritage far outweighs this figure!A Sewerage Treatment Works is possibly oneof the necessities of life but why needlesslydestroy our heritage in the process?Yours sincerely,Bryan C. Bargercc. Mr. J. Gould – Assistant General Managercc. Ms. C Krogh – Director of ShoalhavenWatercc. Mr. Gareth Ward –CouncillorThe EditorThanks Cheryl,welcome David and ChaiIt’s true: there will be changes at the HampdenBridge restaurant( AKA “The Tearooms”).After having worked tirelessly to provideKangaroo Valley and its visitors with a firstclass café Cheryl Patterson has decided to closeher café “SOURCE” which she began fiveyears ago, as independent Lessee-Operator.The good news is that the doors will soon reopento a new style restaurant “JING JO”.Yes, lovers of fine food will be happy to readthat David and Chai [formerly of Jing Jo Thai]have decided to relocate their business to thissite.Cheryl deserves to be recognized andappreciated for her work ethic, dedication andskill.There are no shortcuts for Cheryl who ispassionate about food.Her culinary expertise has been highly praisedby locals and visitors alike so its no surprisethat she made “SOURCE” a popular place toenjoy coffee and home made cakes or one ofher delicious meals.Her baking is legendary - those pies, cookiesand desserts were “moorishly” irresistible.Not only has she delighted our taste-buds butshe has provided work for many young localswho have learnt much about the hospitalityindustry under her expert guidance.Customers have been impressed by the qualityand friendly service.Cheryl and her team have been a real asset tothe KV community.Cheryl, take with you our sincere thanks andbest wishes for a wonderful future with time todo the things you enjoy most.We are pleased that David and Chai have agreedto lease the premises which will be re-openedsoon after some re-decoration and somealterations.Their loyal customers are sure to support thisnew venture: happy that David and Chaidecided to stay in Kangaroo Valley and reestablishtheir renowned business at this uniquelocation with more seating capacity, plenty ofparking and level access.“Jing JO” will be open for breakfast-lunch anddinner every day of the week except Tuesdaysand Wednesdays.It’s a win-win situation for many: customers andtourism will benefit from having another qualityrestaurant in Kangaroo Valley.We wish David and Chai and their employeessuccess and fulfillment in business andhappiness in their lives.The EditorBarbara and Gerard VolkKangaroo Valley Holdings Pty LtdRe The Wild F.Y.R.E. day KangarooValley Hall. Sunday 8 th JuneI would like to thank Karen Harrison, KerrieMcLeod and Mardi Oke for organising theyouth day at Kangaroo Valley on Sunday the 8 thJune. For the uninitiated the organisers hadattempted to organise events for youth of allages starting with the “Pinewood Derby” forpre-teens through to a “battle of the bands” forpre 25 year olds.As a parent I know it is sometimes not easy tocater for the needs of the various ages groupsand interests of, what are collectively labelled,our “youth”.I believe the organisers did just that with theFresh Youth Regional Entertainment day.The Talent quest and battle of the bands gaveyoung people of our area an opportunity todisplay their varied talents to an appreciativeaudience of parents, peers and the community.Young people travelled from the South Coast,Kiama, the Highlands and Nowra to take theopportunity to participate and win prizesincluding studio-recording times.It was good to see some friendly rivalry betweenthe various districts on display; who saidparochialism was dead?One practice that took my eye favourably wasthe way the young participants encouraged eachother before performing— no doubt soothingsome young nerves.Everybody who participated in these events wasa winner.(Continued on page 17)

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 5The Gallery well launchedMore than 130 people were on hand on June 14, as part of the officiallaunching of The Gallery in Kangarooo Valley.They enjoyed a passionate, enthusuiastic and interesting address from PeterThompson, of ABC Talking Heads fame, about the place of artists in the culturallandscape and their contribution to the finer enjoyments in life.Peter also spoke about the environment and the changing attitudes of the widercommunity to the responsibilities for the protection now necessary, to ensure revivaland survival and of the many different paths that the featured artists had travelled toall arrive in such an inspiring place as Kangaroo Valley.The artists on hand were introduced and the assembly was later treated to someexcellent entertainment provided by Garry Tooth from High Range in the theSouthern Highlands.The Gallery in Kangaroo Valley has been open for six months now and presents thework of some 17 artists (10 from Kangaroo Valley and the others from nearby areas)which has resulted in an eclectic exhibition, covering many disciplines, includingtimber and stone sculptures, original art of a variety of styles and subjects, someantique furniture and objects d’art as well as a series of photographs, many capturingKangaroo Valley scenery and moods; the exhibition curated by Alan Gilden.The Gallery is open from 10 am to 4 pm, seven days a week at 149 Moss Vale Road.Peter Thompson (above) in fine form speakingto part of the large attendance of well wishers,shown left.50th Birthday partyfor CMRIThe Kangaroo Valley Branch ofChildren’s Medical Research Institute isplanning to hold a Dinner on August 2 ndto celebrate the 50 th year of raising fundsfor this important organisation.Kangaroo Valley was the first branchto be formed and the committeewishes to include as manyof the former members as possible.Please contact Joan Bray on 44651851 ifyou are interested to receive an invitationto this dinner.Full details next pageADFAS lecture series continuesThe July 10 lecture with digital illustrationis entitled "SOAPSUDS ANDWHITEWASH" - THE SEAPAINTINGS OF J M W TURNEREven today, more than 150 years after Turner'sdeath, no painter can match the range of hissea pieces or his ability to capture the sea in itsdifferent states.When Turner began his career marine paintingwas an overlooked and marginal branch ofpainting.Through his work Turner showed hiscontemporaries that the sea was a subject ofenormous expressive power.His pictures were avidly studied by a host ofartists from Monet and Winslow Homer toabstract artists such as Barnett Newman andMark Rothko.The lecturer is Barry Venning BA MANADFAS. Venue is Berry School of Arts at7.30 pm on Thursday July 10th.Cost is $15 and includes supper.A.P.Sparke & Broad(Established 1897)Solicitors & AttorneysOBJECTIVE, INDEPENDENTADVICE FOR ALL YOURLEGAL MATTERSContact: Philip Broad31 Moss Street, NOWRA, NSW 2541Telephone: (02) 4421 7688Incorporating the practices ofAlan C. Peters. Phelps & Brown and LFJ Norman

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 6Community CornerTHE 50 TH BIRTHDAYPARTY FOR CMRIMembers, past members and interestedsupporters of Children’s MedicalResearch Institute are cordially invitedto attend the 50th year Celebration ofthe foundation of this notable charity.The special occasion will be marked by aDinner at the Jing Jo Thai Restaurant –Moss Vale Rd Kangaroo ValleyOn Saturday August 2 nd .Cost ---$50 per personThis includes complimentary champagne onarrival, wine with dinner and a very specialBirthday Cake.Dress: as this is Jeans for Genes weekend youhave the option of choosing to wear yoursmartest denim attire!There will be entertainment by the KangarooValley School Award winning PercussionBand and a fun Auction of Jeans decorated bytalented local artists.The evening will commence with a welcome at6.30 pm, followed by the entertainment anddinner at 8 pm.RSVP by Monday 21 st JulyPlaces are limited so please book early.Acceptances with cheques to Joan GoodPO Box 6233Kangaroo Valley 2577Tel. 4651166Joan BrayWingecaribee WIRESRescue number4862 1788Country Womens AssociationKangaroo Valley BranchDue to the death of our dear friend andformer member Gloriel Knox, therewas no meeting held in June.The date clashed with the funeral and severalmembers wished to attend.We paid our respects to Gloriel at St. Jude’sAnglican church in Bowral and it was obviousthat we were only a few of the people who hadbeen touched by this kindly god fearingwoman. Gloriel will be missed by many.Her quiet good humour, her beautiful smile,her unswerving faith were an example and joyto us, and her great eccentricity a source ofloving amusement as she pottered through ourlives.I know I shall miss the talks that we had andthe debates on aspects of women’s equalitywith men.Not women’s lib, but Gloriel’s ideas on theworth of the persons, male and female, madefor good deep conversations.The next CWA meeting will be July 1 st whenthe craft group will begin making drawstringbags for children with cancer.The bags are to hold the beads that the childrenreceive each time they have a treatment. Weare grateful to Gale Harvey’s mother for thematerials to do thisYou will be pleased to know that GwenNelson, our President, is out of hospital andstaying with her daughter for the next coupleof months so we will be missing her at ourmeetings.It will be great to have her back fully mobileand well. She tells me that she is well on theway to recovery. It will be good to have herback as we miss her cheerfulness at meetings.Till next month-watch this space!Win PalmerPublicity Officer.ELLEISHA’S Cleaning Services“Time is money & we will save you both”CleaningServicing Kangaroo Valley4464 2688KIM: 0425 809 797 ~ LISA 0430 484 776Specialising in all areasDomesticCommercialHoliday RentalsEnd of LeaseBuilders / Renovation CleansServicing Helensburgh to NowraReferences availableFully InsuredFree quotes availableElleishascleaning2@bigpond.comPO Box 52 Gerringong NSW 253474 Borrowdale Close BerryFax: 4464 2699VIEW ClubexplainedPeople often ask what VIEW is allabout.The essence of VIEW is that it seriouslycommits to educational opportunities forAustralian children by actively workingwith The Smith Family and its Learning forLife programme, and it is a supportnetwork for women.At a recent meeting of VIEW clubs in theShoalhaven zone, our Club President, ElaineRiedel gave a brief talk on the Kangaroo ValleyClub and I think it epitomizes much of what wedo.I would like today to talk about ‘F’ words.So let’s start with a good old-fashioned ‘F’word.Fun, an important ingredient in all VIEW clubs.With fun included in the format a club remainsharmonious; it will retain existing membershipand encourage others to join in the good times.My congratulations to all Programme Officersand Assistant Secretaries who work so hard tomake this happen.My second ‘F’ word is friendship. Friendshipis the glue which binds a club together. Somany of us have moved to this area inretirement and VIEW has been the place weturned to, to meet and become part of our newcommunity. In this warm environment manystrong and lasting friendships have beenformed.My third is fundraising, one of our reasons forbeing. Without the structure and ideals of VIEWand The Smith Family our clubs would notexist.In this third age of retirement there is a strongurge to ‘give something back’ to society andthrough The Smith Family’s Learning for Lifewe are helping future generations out of thepoverty trap.Finally flexibility. Perhaps the most importantof all.All clubs have unique challenges andcircumstances which need to be dealt with in amanner best suited to that particular club. Noone solution fits all.Kangaroo Valley has an active membership ofabout 15 including the committee, and all ourmembers need to wear many hats.For this reason the one ‘F’ word we don’tembrace is formality. At the end of the dayinformality and flexibility equals fun andfriendship.Our guest speaker at our June lunch wasMargaret Jones, a resident of the Valley, whospoke about her years serving in the WRAN.Thank you, Margaret, for a very interesting talk.In July our speaker will be another local, DavidShort, who will speak about his involvement inthe rescue of a QANTAS jumbo.David travelled to London and helped bring theplane back to Australia, where it is now in theLongreach Hall of Fame.Some members have invited their husbands tothe lunch, which will once again be held in theKangaroo Valley Hall. Jenelle BrangwinPublicity Officer

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 7BejingOlympicsbeckonShane Rose, once a long time Valleyresident and son of John and Penny Roseis literally on the edge of his seat as heawaits announcement of the AustralianEquestrian team for the Bejing Gamesdue on July 4.Shanes recent performances after a nervetesting series of injuries and setbacks includingthe Equine Influenza epidemic last year isfavoured for selection this time after many yearsof effort and development of his all roundhorsemanship.His performance at the Werribee Park selectiontrials in April was excellent, giving the Rosefamily plenty of cause for confidence that thistime Shane will make the team which willcompete in Hong Kong due to quarantine issueson the Chinese mainland.Regarded as the equine equivalent to a triathlon,the MelbourneInternational Three DayEvent tests the courageand endurance of theequine athlete over threedays of intensecompetition, across threedisciplines -dressage,cross-country and showjumping.Rose’s star horse AllLuck appears recoveredfrom a series of recentsetbacks including hiscontraction of equineinfluenza last year anddisqualification from amajor selection event inSydney after failing totrot up.Call for nominationsfor community grantsShoalhaven City Council is calling fornominations for its Community Grantsprogram.Community groups or associations cangain grants of up to $2,000 through theprogram which provides grants eachfinancial year on 30 June and 30November.The Community Grants Program enablescommunity groups and organisations to design,implement and complete projects that supportand enhance the lives of residents of theShoalhaven.There will be two rounds of Community Grantseach financial year.The first round of grants will be distributed inSeptember 2008 and the second round in March2009.The Community Grants program aims to:(Continued on page 50)

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 8Community CornerHistorical Society ReportThe History Fair at Nowra was wellattended by the general communityand our thanks to Fay Nelson whorepresented Kangaroo Valley.Each month we have been able to arrange forone of our members to write about somefeature of the Pioneer Park Museum in theIMAG and we hope this will bring moreinterested visitors to our historical facility.The re-construction of Walkers Bridgeprogresses but no date yet for the grandopening!An interesting piece of history to record is the100 th anniversary of the School of ArtsBuilding at Osborne Park.A short history courtesy of the research workdone by Professors Bailey and Griffiths.KANGAROO VALLEY EARTHMOVING(ALSO TRADING AS KANGAROO VALLEY BOBCAT & TIPPER HIRE)ABN 24 427 N930 266NEW WOMBAT BOBCAT. 5 TONNE IHI EXCAVATORVOLVO TIP TRUCK, ROAD GRADER. ROLLERTHE FOLLOWING ATTACHMENTS COME also available, augers, trencher, rockbreaker, different sized bucketsExcavations, drainage, landscaping, small and narrow roads,(we have the ideal grader for these roads, dam cleanin.WE CAN CART roadbase, sand, soil,mulch, blue metal etc (13 tonne)GIVEOwner44651 US 172 A CALL FOR A FREE QUOTE ONoperatorsor mobiles 0408534019 or 0407786512It started life as ‘a humble structure ofgalvanised iron’ on the eastern side of theUniting Church.In 1908, a better weatherboard building wasdesigned by the then Headmaster of the PrimarySchool, James Burrell and built on the presentsite.The librarian was Henry Packer who was thegreat grandfather of Bill and Gib Lidbetter.The trustees were J. Nelson, EJ Williams, JMoffit, and J Cullen.Moving pictures were shown there for a time in1928, by J Juleff from Berry.The lighting plant which was installed in 1946,helped run the projector, and then operated by LSnodgrass.Then came the era of talking films!In 1928, the architect firm of Sheaf werecommissioned to submit plans for an extensionto the building and this work was completed byBaker Brothers.The floods of 1927 had washed away the oldNational Hall and the sandstone blocks were reusedas foundations for this new building.ALSO NOW SUPPLYINGBUSHROCK from handheld sizes, to display sizesor for a large rock wall, orthe small rock wall, maybeeven rocking around yourdam edge.Give us a call, this isOUR SPECIALITY.How may I help you?It was then extensively used for the popularcommunity dances and many social functions.In 1937 a supper room was added.The School of Arts had a library and billiardroom and was well patronised before the adventof the motor car and home entertainment.The books were given to the Red Cross todistribute to servicemen during g WWII.Today the building is the responsibility of theOsborne Park Trust and is the pride of JacquiLenz who ensures it is well maintained andcared for as the grand old lady it has nowbecome.Joan BrayLearning fromexperienceI was walking down the street when I wasaccosted by a particularly dirty and shabbylookinghomeless woman who asked me for acouple of dollars for dinner.I took out my wallet, got out ten dollars andasked, 'If I give you this money, will you buywine with it instead of dinner?''No, I had to stop drinking years ago', thehomeless woman told me.'Will you use it to go shopping instead of buyingfood?' I asked.'No, I don't waste time shopping, 'the homelesswoman said.'I need to spend all my time trying to stay alive.''Will you spend this on a beauty salon instead offood?' I asked.'Are you NUTS!' replied the homeless woman.I haven't had my hair done in 20 years!''Well, I said, 'I'm not going to give you themoney. Instead, I'm going to take you out fordinner with my husband and me tonight.'The homeless woman was shocked. 'Won't yourhusband be furious with you for doing that? Iknow I'm dirty, and I probably smell prettydisgusting.'I said, 'That's okay. It's important for him to seewhat a woman looks like after she has given upwine, shopping, and hair appointments.'11.30 WednesdayI will beamvisitingto 12.30 JulyKangaroo Valley on30th,pmoutside the Pioneer Motel,Moss Vale Road.Joanna Gash MPFederal Member for GilmorePh 4423 1782 Fax 4423 1785Local call 1300 301 790joanna.gash@aph.gov.auI look forward to meeting you…

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 9Improved facilities means extended services for IT specialistThe modernised premises ofLazyfish were christened by wellwisherson June 20, to mark thefurther development of thecompany’s range of services andequipment.Lisa Champion and Nadine CoveJoy Battye and Cathy Gorman catchThe fisheye surveillance camera an important part of the Lazyfish rangePUBLIC NOTICERobert Morgan chats with Nadine CoveThe National Parks and Wildlife Service (now a division of the Department ofEnvironment and Climate Change) are conducting a 1 week per month 1080Fox Baiting Program in the Kangaroo Valley and Bugong Areas. Baiting isconducted on various private properties, National Parks estate, SydneyCatchment Authority estate and Crown land. All properties being baited aresign posted with the dates of each baiting session.Dog owners are asked to ensure their dogs do not wander as dogs are highlysusceptible to 1080 poisoning.For any further information please contact Melinda Nortonor Alison Prentice at the DECC Highlands Area Office,Fitzroy Falls on (02) 4887 8244.Business for Sale. $45,000Great opportunity for active localor a couple, to work in theCanoeing and Mountain bikingtourism trade.Valley based and lots of FunEnquiries Rob 0402 439 626 or emailinfo@kangaroovalleyescapes.com.au

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 10The things Lions doLeonine NewsIn the past year, members of Kangaroo ValleyLions Club have spent a total of over 2,500hours in service to the community which, onthe basis of the average wage, amounts to over$100,000 of voluntary labour.Those hours included:catering at the Kangaroo Valley Folk Festival,Show, Anzac Day and Markets and, withother Lions clubs, at the Nowra MotorShow (which raises money for Variety)managing the swimming pool and theCommunity Centrerunning driver reviver at holiday weekendswith Lions clubs of the Southern Highlands,holding the annual picnic for physicallyand intellectually disabled peopleFlatmate wantedto share 4 bedroom housewith 2 professional males.Male or Female.$110 per week plus expenses.2 minute walk to town(Kangaroo Valley).Air Conditioned.Phone Mark on 0425 369 179May I help?As your Federal member, it is my role tofacilitate and assist you and your familywith any concerns you have, please ring me on4423 1782 or toll free on 1300 301 790I regularly visit Kangaroo Valleyand am more than happy to call or visityou if you cannot get to my office.Joanna Gash MPFederal Member for Gilmoremowing the footpath between Hampden Bridgeand the Ambulance Stationorganising Lions Youth of the Year Questrunning our annual Christmas raffle and aspecial raffle in aid of the LinearAccelerator Appeal.Every dollar raised by Lions goes back into thecommunity, whether local or the widercommunity.Apart from donating money to specific causes,our club contributes to Lions ClubsInternational Foundation (LCIF).In the February Voice, we reported that LCIFhad been ranked the best non-governmentorganisation in the world.These are just some of the ways LCIF spends itsmoney:SightFirst – saving of sightRebuilding in South Asia following the tsunamiRecovery efforts in the United States afterHurricane KatrinaHelping local Lions address community needs,both in developed and developing nations,by means such as equipping health clinics,providing life skills to students, andsupporting hearing and vision screenings.The current issue of the Lion magazine reportsthese individual examples of Lions helpingtheir communities:An Outpatient Comprehensive Care Clinic forHIV children in NairobiSaving and restoring sight in Tibet throughSightFirst China ActionThe formation of a new Lions Club in Ivanhoe,with the intention of bringing life to adrought-ravaged corner of outback NSWThe annual occupation by Warrandyte(Victoria) Lions of the Sandown RacingCircuit, to give visually impaired people achance to experience the thrill of driving(with a driving instructor next to them!)The building by Gwandalan (NSW) Lions of afence for a young couple when the moneythey had saved for the purpose had to bespent on cancer treatmentThe provision by Forster-Tuncurry (NSW)Lions of a hydrotherapeutic bath andautomated lifter for a community agedcarefacilityThe donation by Healesville (Victoria) Lions ofa “Jaws of Life” to their local volunteerState Emergency Service.So, please continue to help us serve our owncommunity and others in need.Tony BarnettDr Bob in the ValleyDr Bob Sims MB, BSTravel Medicine Specialist and Family PhysicianShop 3, The Strand, 162 Moss Vale Road Kangaroo Valley 2577NEW SURGERY HOURS:Monday to Wednesday 9-30am – 12-30pm: 1-30 pm –4-30 pmClosed Thursdays; Friday 1pm-5pmBy appointmentTel: 4465 1966Medical Mustsand MentionsI love the French word for winter –“l’hiver”, which makes me think ofshiver – exactly what I’ve been doinglately.As we move into the dead of winter it is indeedtimely to think of the medical nuisances andirritations that accompany it.This is my second winter in the Valley (yes, Iknow all the old-timers say we haven’t had areally cold winter for years and years) and I’mconvinced that there is a much higher incidenceof respiratory infections here than anywhere elseI’ve practised medicine, and I’ve practised inlots of different places (Tracey keeps askingwhen I’ll have had enough practising and startdoing it for real!!!).Anyway, it really is the whole gamut – flu, thecommon cold, non-specific viral respiratoryinfections and even pneumonia.I’m absolutely sure of it.Reckon its something to do with living in atotally enclosed valley, lack of clearing breezes,the dreaded dampness and fog (great setting fora James Herbert novel) etc etc.I guess there has to be some sort of a downsideto living in such a naturally beautiful place!Although flu immunisation should ideally beundertaken in the autumn, in preparation forwinter, its still not too late, and there is stillplenty of vaccine available.Diabetic?Heart problems?Lung problems?Kidney problems?Asthma?Working in health care or education?Lots of face to face contact with the generalpublic?If any of these apply to you then you should stillconsider immunisation.Do yourself a favour and get off your collectivebums and do something about it.If you can get that far, take advantage of yourconsultation with your doctor to check a fewother things.Every adult should know their blood pressure,weight, cholesterol level and sugar level.Let your doctor know any relevant familyhistory and fess up about your smoking.We’ll leave caffeine and alcohol to a latercolumn – can’t prod too hard, and after all, wehave to keep the Pub, the Bowlo and all thelocal coffee shops in business!On a more personal note, many of you haveprobably heard that Tracey and I are moving outof the Valley to live.Unfortunately, beyond our control, and probablyonly temporary.We won’t be too far away and I’ll still bedriving into the Valley to work each day.I’ll go on record here and assure you all that thesurgery will continue unchanged and that ourcommitment to the health care of the Valleycommunity will not only persist, but strengthen.Until next time, then.DR BOB IN THE VALLEY.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 11What a great idea!The Idea of North was formed inCanberra in 1993 before moving toSydney in 1999, but it was 2008 whenthey made their Kangaroo Valley debut.It wont be their last as they promised at theend of a rewarding and exciting concert toa fully packed K. V. Hall on June 27.From the moment they dropped into perfectpitch and harmony with their opening number,“Give me the simple life” there was anelectrifying sense of anticipation from theaudience that never left us.Many of the arrangements for their repetoirewere put together by Naomi Crellin who joinedthe group in 2002 and her world class scatsinging was but one of many highlights of a funfilled entertaining evening.The droll delivery of tenor and resident comicNick Begbie, served the group well anddemonstrated that although they may not takethemselves too seriously, they treat their musicand their performances with the utmost respectand it shows.From the “air double bass playing” by AndrewPiper and excellent harmonic and solo itemsfrom new soprano Sally who has achievedinstant rapport with her fellow performers and itshows.In talking to members of the audience duringand after the show the acclaim was universaland enthusiastic.“This was one of the most enchantingperformances I have ever been part of”“I was surprised at the renge and tightness of thegroup, they never missed a beat”Yes folks that’s right !On July 19 th the Bowlo will be having aspecial ‘Christmas in July’ traditionaldinner with the sounds of Santa and hisfriends in the background completing theatmosphere.Bookings for the 7.30pm start are essential (ph:4465 2820), for this great night which looks likea real winner all for just $20 each. Included inthe price is a 3 course roast dinner with all thetrimmings of Yorkshire pudding, gravy, a prawncocktail entrée and mud cake or apple crumblewith cream or ice cream for dessert .Enjoying an evening with friends and family inthe cosy atmosphere of the Visions restaurant atthe Bowlo makes more sense to sit back and eata great hot traditional treat in Winter rather thanduring our scorching Summer months.August 9 th Elvis will be in the building shakingall his good bits for you.Our special entertainer performs an ELVIS /Johnny Cash show with all of their great hits.FREE to all members - so make sure you book atable early for dinner prior to the 7.30pm show.The Bowlo will be offering great entertainmentnights nearly every month and from July the‘Monster Member Badge Draw’ in conjunction( with Nowra Bowling Club) will be runningwith draws every Wednesday, Friday andSuperb performers all. From left:Naomi Crellin (alto), Sally Cameron (soprano) Andrew Piper (bass) and Nick Begbie (tenor)“Their were so many highlights it is difficult topick one out”.“When they put down the microphones, I wasmoved to nearly tears by the simple and pureharmonies they presented”.“They were so talented it was incedible. Thehighlight for me was the Bach Fugue played onkazoos”The musicality and verve and enthusiasm of thetroupe made for a thoroughly enjoayableevening, with constant surprises as to songs,musicality and versatilty of each of theperformers.At all times they had the audience’s raptBowlo to rock with the sounds of Santa and ElvisSunday evenings between 7 and 8pm.The current jackpot is over $2,600 and thewinner must be present at the time of the drawto collect the prize.The Kangaroo Valley Bowlo has also justAROMA CLEAN LIVING LINEN HIRE“Supplying linento holiday accommodationon the South Coast”:Now offering Winter Specials(at greatly reduced prices)Packages availableSheets, towels, hand towels, bathmatsDelivery & Pickup includedQuality fresh white linenPhone 0401 284046acquired a club bus which will be operatingsoon for your convenience.Check for details at the club.e-mail aromacleanliving@bigpond.comwww.aromacleanliving.com.auattention and the connection between The Ideaof North and their audience was palpablyobvious.The audience were entranced and begging formore at the end of the thrilling program whichincluded gospel songs, modern swing, jazz,love songs and ballads about life in particularand life in general.My personal favourite was the reworded BlueBayou (with wind sound effects) and I am sureI would have enjoyed some more songswithout microphones.I wonder if they might do Fields of Athen Ryenext time?Carl LeddyLance Brown

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 12The WinterDance was agreat event asalways!The music wasfantastic, therewas lots of delicious food to eat, the barwas busy and there was lots ofenthusiastic bidding on auction items!Jeremy Butterworth organised some wonderfulHOMEGROWN performers (includinghimself) to entertain the crowd.Revellers took to the dance floor as soon as themusic began and the dancers kept the floor fullall evening.Thanks to Leightons for sponsoring the music.The auction was a spectacular event withauctioneer Chris Treuen ably assisted by thelovely “KV Angels.”Thanks to Harcourts for their sponsorship, andthanks to all the donors and bidders.Thanks to JoStirling of Morfdesign for thetime and talentshe donates tothe pre school.The WinterDance graphicswere fantastic!The WinterDance wouldnot be possiblewithout thehard work anddedication ofthe many preschool parentswho put inhours and hoursof time andmountains oftalent to bring itChris Truen, the auctioneer, and his support group, the KV Angelsto fruition.Some special thanks to ourmarvellous co ordinator SueBaker and the team: LisaO’Neill, Rachelle Potter,Rebecca Campbell, KatrinaThomas, Tracey Styles,Chris and Bronwyn Petersen,Justine O’Reilly, MiffyLlewellyn, Tara and DionLarkins.Thanks too to all the families for supportingthese wonderful volunteers.The “Bottom Line” ?The HOMEGROWN Winter Dance 2008 hasraised close to $11,000 for the pre school!We have plans to buy some lovely newequipment and toys and put some savingstowards capital works that are needed so that thepre school will be here for many moregenerations of Kangaroo Valley children.Thank You Everyone!The silent auctions had some competitivebidding, a load of firewood gaining arecord price due to specific conditions ofthe delivery. (Something to do with a G-String I am told!)Thanks again to all the donors and bidders.Thanks to the Friendly Inn for sponsoringthe bar and to Pat Powell for responsiblyserving the alcohol.Thanks to all the other people who assistedwith glass washing etc through theevening.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 13Toffer’s tricks are just part of his appealAt the end of last year we had to haveour 15 year-old Labrador put down.It had got to the point where he couldhardly see, hear or walk and we knew itwas time.For the last few years he had spent his daysmainly asleep, just waking to eat and give us awag of his tail and a lick, totter outside and thensettle down to sleep again.We had got used to his sedentary lifestyle, theway he quietly melded into the woodwork andgot on with his business of sleeping withoutdisturbing us at all.But suddenly we were dogless and the houseseemed very empty.It was time for a new pup. We had decided wedidn’t want a carbon copy of Tenzing, ourprevious yellow Lab.He had been so wonderful that we didn’t wantto be constantly comparing a new pup with ourold companion.This time we would break with tradition andhave a black Lab.So into our lives bounded three-month-oldToffer, a pitch black bundle of mischief.At night the only part of him you can see are thewhites of his eyes; two little round white ringsof tissue staring out at you from thecamouflaging darkness were at first quitedisconcerting, until you felt his rough tonguelovingly licking your hand.He quickly wriggled his way into our hearts andlives and proceeded to make our place his homeand playground.For the first three months he surprised us by hisdocility.He was small for a Lab, but with a big headand paws that he is only just starting to growinto. Small, quiet and well-behaved; wedecided our previous fears about a young doghad been groundless.There was nothing to this puppy business.And then he turned six months old and spranginto life with all an adolescent’s disregard forrules and regulations.The first sign we had of his changed outlook onlife was our shredded swimming pool.A collapsible 12 foot circular pool, it had beenjust the thing for us to flop into at the end of ahot day, or for the kids to play around in.We had just drained it and were drying it inpreparation for its winter storage, but Tofferfound it just too tempting.“Our fault”, we said, “we should never have leftit around”. That was before he attacked the oldrecliner chair on the verandah.We had bought this chair during the early yearsof our marriage in Canada.We have a photo of three-month-old Katrinalounging in it. We had dragged it all the wayback from Canada and eventually Chris had reupholsteredit.When it was finally replaced last year wecouldn’t bear to part with such an old friend,and it was wonderful to stretch out on in thecool of the verandah.But Toffer had other plans, and we went outone morning to find its stuffing strewn all overthe verandah and lawn.Admittedly Toffer wasn’t the only oneresponsible.My daughter’s seven-month-old Kelpie had ahand in it. In fact, I think they egged each otheron as they raced backwards and forwards seeingwho could drag out the largest piece of stuffing.So the poor chair was consigned to the tip.And then there was my sister-in-law’s brandnew Italian shoes that we found with the toeschewed completely off; a visitor’s medicinebag which Toffer had carefully ferreted outof a packed suitcase and was in the process ofscattering the contents over the lawn whenhe was found – fortunately before he hadswallowed any of the pills.No cupboard is safe.We couldn’t work out what on earth had causedhis stomach to be so swollen one night that hecould hardly walk.Then we found all the potatoes had disappearedfrom the bottom of the pantry.There were many trips outside that night!But the saddest theft was the smallest.All that our grandson wanted for his birthdaywas a praying mantis.They’re not the most popular item in pet storesand his father had been trying everywhere tofind one.We couldn’t believe it when a couple of weeksbefore his birthday, his mother looked down onher arm and found one just sitting there.It was magic; the answer to a prayer!ReflectionsWe carefully putit in an old icecream containerfilled with alldifferent sorts ofleaves, as none ofus were too surewhat a prayingmantis actuallyate, and covered itwith aerated gladwrap so Samcould watch him.Sam was elated,but you can guesswhat happened.by Jenelle BrangwinToffer knowswhat comes in ice-cream containers; hesometimes gets old ones to lick.Despite the fact that we had left this one on topof the outside fridge, by the morning it haddisappeared and all we later found was onewell-licked ice-cream container and a fewscattered leaves.Poor Sam!Toffer is not all bad and he does try.He’s good with our chickens and ducks,watches them curiously and although hewould love them to play with him he leavesthem alone, and if he finds an egg he carriesit ever so carefully in his mouth withoutleaving a single mark!He loves to be with the horses, often sittingright by Blackie the Shetland’s head as hegrazes in the paddock and I’ve even witnessedthe two black heads sharing a bucket of feed!He mostly comes when called, he’s pretty goodat sitting and will stay for a reasonable amountof time before it all gets too boring and heforgets what he’s doing at any rate.He barks at strange noises from the safety ofthe verandah, letting us know that he’s incharge of the place and won’t let any outsiderscreep up on us.But he’s the one that’s done the creeping; rightinto our lives and there’s no way we would bewithout him.ForValley Voiceadvertisingplease phone44 651 621Shoalhaven Spring Water Pty LtdABN: 48 114 801 259PO Box 4050, East Nowra NSW 2541Phone: (02) 4423.3316Fax: (02) 4422.6073Email: sswater@optusnet.com.auDelivery to Kangaroo Valley on Fridays

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 14My homing thoughtsby Sean ScarisbrickAmerica’s2008 PresidentialCampaign –Part IWhenever you find that you are on the side ofthe majority, it is time to pause and reflect. -Mark TwainTrue Terror is to wake up one morning anddiscover that your high school class is runningthe country - Kurt Vonnegut Jr.One of the difficult things about politicalwriting is that even the most deliberateattempts at non-partisanship can send tempersrising and wrath a-boiling when the writerrefuses to come out hard against one of thecombatants.So let me cover myself good and early – I’mnot particularly fond of either candidate.I naturally have a preference, but if you cannotdiscern it by the end of this essay, then Ireckon I’ll have done my job about right.I considered discussing the dynamics of the2008 American Presidential Campaign early inmy career as an essayist (six months andcounting…), but I found it unfeasible to sayanything substantial until the major players inthis drama had been decided.This year, that took a while.Hillary the invincible, however, is a fadingmemory, and the remaining comparison is assimple as black and white: a fresh young faceversus a craggy old war veteran.This month I’ll be focusing on the widercontext, and next I’ll take a closer look at thecandidates themselves.Speaking of context, as a non-naturalisedpermanent resident – a ‘legal alien’, if you will– I have no right to vote.I have been here long enough that I couldbecome an American Citizen if I desired to.But I have, for now, made a conscious decisionnot to.The reason has little to do with America, and agreat deal to do with me, and is perhaps fodderfor a future treatise.Though it is not legally mandated, the UnitedStates effectively operates under a two-partysystem.The two major parties are represented by theelephant (Republicans), and the donkey(Democrats). Hmmm – a fight between alumbering monolith and a hairy and everbrayingass – perhaps the images are a propos.Having introduced the two teams, I need tospend some time distinguishing them from thebroad philosophical ideologies they claim torepresent, and from which they draw themajority of their adherents.To my mind, one of the great encumbrances onAmerican political and social thought is thecommon mistake of confusing the members andactions and policies of a political party with thebroad philosophy they claim to represent.Think of it this way: just as it would be wrongto damn Jesus Christ and his message for thewide array of clerical abuses we have seenthough the ages, so too is it a promulgation ofignorance to blame to horrors of the politicalparties on the considered philosophies fromwhich they emerged.So to the parties:The Republican Party is broadly sympathetic tothe conservative worldview.Modern conservative thought traces its historyfrom Edmund Burke, through the principledpolitics of men such as William Wilberforceand the academic work of Russell Kirk, throughto the writings of the recently deceased WilliamF. Buckley, longtime editor of the NationalReview, in whose pages he reinvigoratedconservative political thought.From conservative Presidents, landmarks suchas the Emancipation Proclamation (whichabolished slavery), the National Parks System,First and foremost this debate should becentred on Diesel NOT Unleaded.Why? You may ask.Just look at the increase in supermarketprices for your answer. While it may costyou $5 or $10 extra to fill your tankeverything that is transported (which iseverything) rises as Diesel rises.My average basket at the supermarket per weekhas increased on average $30 and that’s for oneperson.Australia’s whole economy is tied to Diesel andtherefore it should be afforded the same priorityand status as water i.e. an essential commodity.I own a small transport company and I have hadto significantly raise my prices twice in the pastyear just to maintain profit margins.This cost you money too.I am compelled to write this letter because I amsick of all the namby-pamby pussyfootingand principles of limited government havesprung.The Democratic Party is more closely alignedwith liberal thought.There is room for some confusion here, becausemany would argue that the Australian LiberalParty is anything but ‘liberal’ in its outlook.It is difficult to trace a clear line along theprogression of liberal thought, but a good placeto start would be Rousseau, who inspired writersfrom Thoreau to Ginsberg and Chomsky, alongwith the intellectual subtleties of documentarymakerMichael Moore.From the consciences of more liberal Presidentshave sprung an increased focus on socialwelfare and some of America’s great civil rightsadvances.Independents occupy a strange middle space:they are not much loved by the faithful of eitherparty, but remain absolutely essential for anysuccessful presidential campaign.Independents sustain a dynamic in which bothparties try to stimulate their bases while at thesame time attempting to attract the necessaryvoters from the center.Both Democrats and Republicans claim they arecloser to the center than their opponents.Some argue that the game of politics (asopposed to the greater philosophical grounding)makes the distinction between the practicalactions of either party singly difficult todistinguish.That’s an interesting idea, but it ignores thesignificant differences in bearing betweenRepublicans and Democrats.And that’s where I’ll pick up the thread inAugust, as we get closer to the Tuesday after thefirst Monday of November. i.e.: Election Day onNovember 4.[In the interest of full disclosure, I shouldmention that I found this discussion muchsimpler than explaining cricket to Yanks…]sean@scarisbricks.netKookaburraFuel: An open debate:or how to knock about 50c a litre off the price of fuelThis open letter was forwarded to the Voice byPaul Marcus, a previous Editor. Worth a look.around everyone seems to be doing about thecurrent fuel debate. I have spent considerabletime researching this area because it affects myincome.Contained herein is the WHOLE truth aboutthedebate, the WHOLE big picture, if you will.NO-ONE till now has had the testicularfortitude to stick their necks out and present theWHOLE argument about just how much we arebeing RIPPED OFF. If you want the truth andthe WHOLE truth read on.DON’T – Listen to spin doctors from the oilcompanies. THEY HAVE A VESTEDINTEREST TO KEEP FUEL PRICES HIGH.DON’T – Listen to the government – state orfederal. THEY HAVE A VESTED INTERESTTO KEEP FUEL PRICES HIGH.DON’T – pay too much attention to news orcurrent affairs programs. THEY HAVE THEIROWN AGENDAS.So here we go, how to make fuel cheaper!FIRSTLY – DISBAND FUEL PARITYParity, for those that don’t know, is government(Continued on page 34)

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 15The schools of Kangaroo ValleyPart 5BENDEELA ---1876-1926The Bendeela area had been settled sincethe 1860’s by pioneers with largehouseholds, like the King, Milligan,Bryen, Rous and Rendall families, so theneed for educational facilities was animportant concern.Some of these settlers were lacking inliterary skills and desired more for theirchildren.A small slab building with a shingled roof, achimney, water tank and out house was built bythe community in 1876 and situated just pastwhere the Power Station is today.It was granted Provisional Status, then officiallyopened as a Public School in May 1878 andremained so until May 1908.The teachers during those thirty years were,Mary Kelly, James Emery, Annie Shannon,Henry Jamieson, Horace Foot and Henry James.In 1908, Bendeela became a Half-Time schoolwith Woodhill for a year and then with BudgongGap from 1910-1914. Oscar Schlacht, ThomasBryant and Victor Taylor were responsible forboth schools during those years.The school closed in 1914 for the period ofWW1 and re-opened in October 1919.Francis Mc Namara and his successorscontinued the ‘half-time circuits’ with BudgongGap until Bendella closed in 1926.These hard working teachers were DonaldBrooker, ES Trainor, John Toone and CarlMorisset.Bendeela became an active community andbeing closer to the main township and on thedirect route from the Southern Highlands overthe Meryla Pass was more quickly settled.Charles Throsby aided by the aboriginalTimelong had explored and mapped this route tothe lush river flats: it was used by the earlycedar getters and cattlemen.Besides the school, a Union Church and a PostOffice were established in the latter part of theC19th and supplies were delivered every twoweeks, by wagon, from Wilkinson’s store in theValley.There were four Saw mills and a Bee farmduring the early years of the C20th andelectricity connected in 1951.BUDGONG GAP 1884-1930The original school opened in October 1884.It was built on land owned by the early settlerJohn Randall.The site is adjacent to a creek, aptly namedSchool Creek, on the back road to Nowra overBudgong Gap.The local community constructed a singleroomed school house with the trademarkchimney, outhouse and water tank.The Council of Education provided the teacherand the equipment.Beginning as a Provisional School calledBudgong, with Henry Peck as teacher, itoperated for four years, with Annie Kennedyfollowing him.Kangaroo TalesBy Joan BrayThe well dressed pupils of Bellawongarah Public School 1905—a far cry from today’s uniformsThen in 1889, it became a Public School andthe teachers were Annie Kennedy, EmilyNoakes, and Edith Robinson.In 1895 Budgong closed for three years and wasre-opened in September 1898 as Budgong GapPublic, with Bridget Lambert the first teacher.It remained a Public School until 1909.Bridget Lambert resigned when she married andthe next teachers from 1889 -1909 wereWilliam Kingsell, Amy Monaghan, MaudeKennedy, Frank Roberts, Gordon Allmon.Children from the families of Gerrey, Randall,Forsyth, Limmery, Mc Nelly, Waddington andBrookes were all educated at Budgong GapSchool and as they had large families theschool was the centre of a happy social life.The annual Picnic and Sports Day wasespecially enjoyed by all this community.It was held on Charles Randall’s paddockadjacent to the school and this was bedeckedwith brightly coloured flags for the occasion.Private vehicles and two hired coachestransported the 200 adults and scores of excitedchildren and the grand event was opened bythe local Member of Parliament.It was reported in the ‘Kangaroo ValleyTimes’, in December 1901, that “Wilkinsonand Davidson, the proprietors of the local(Continued on page 16)Kangaroo ValleySupermarket4465 1512Hello and welcome to the Valley!We have the one-stop-shop for all youreveryday and weekend needsGroceries, Specialty breads, Delicatessen,Eco friendly, Organic products, Frozen foodsFresh fruit and vegetables, DVD hireChemist lines, Video hireNewspapers , MagazinesMoss Vale Road Kangaroo Valley

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 16Kangaroo TalesBy Joan Bray(Continued from page 15)General Stores lent the crockery and cutlery, asumptuous feast was provided by the residentsof Budgong and nobody went without!”Children were kept busy with sports and gamesof all kinds and the ladies demonstrated theirskills in the ‘Throwing of the Wicket’ and the‘Nail Driving’ Competitions.Today tall trees stand as signposts for theschool, picnic grounds and John Randall’s firstslab hut.John Randall first selected land here on theroute pioneered by Charles Throsby in 1818and John Oxley and James Meehan in 1819.After 1866, John Randall purchased more landat Budgong Gap and built the predecessor ofthe historic house that is Peter Gerrey’s home.However the rabbit plague and the Depressioncontributed to the fall in profitability of thedairy farms and many families sold theirholdings.From 1910 -1930, Budgong Gap was Half -Time until it closed in May 1930.The attempts to keep the schools open andoffer some educational facilities to the childrenof families in remoter areas resulted in a seriesof teachers sharing schools on a ten day circuit.Those who carried out this not too easy taskwere Thomas Bryant, Victor Taylor, CE Johns,followed by Reginald Chapman, before FrancisMc Namara and his successor shared their timesolely with Bendeela from 1919 -1926.These schools were Half -Time with BudgongGap; Bendeela 1910-1914, Kangaroo ValleyUpper 1915-1916, Beaumont 1916-1919,Bendeela 1919-1926, until that school closedin March of that year.After 1926, Budgong Gap, with WilliamHansen continued Half Time withBellawongarah until the end of 1929.Mr Hansen stayed on as teacher for the Halftimeschools of Bellawongarah and Woodhill.However, to simplify matters Norman Woods,who had been appointed to the now full timeBarrengarry agreed to share his services withBudgong for the first term of 1930 andsupervise its closure in May that year.Earlier teachershad journeyed onhorseback, but MrHansen owned acar!After WW11,land at Budgongcould be boughtfor 10 shillings anacre and largerholdings wereacquired.Mitch and KenAbernethyoperated a timbermill opposite theold school site.They cut theturpentine, woolly- butt and box hardwood from the escarpmentand Charlie Bryce and Jack Duffy werecontracted with their bullock teams fortransport.It was a remote area and the only telephone wasat the Gerrey household at the top of BudgongGap.When Warren Heddles was injured at the Mill,Jack Duffy manufactured a ligature to stem thegushing blood, Ivan Gerrey drove the rescueUte and Mrs Gerrey arranged for an Ambulancefrom Nowra to meet the trauma victim andescort on Cambewarra Mountain.What team work!There was a Post Office of sorts at the elderPeter Gerrey’s home in this Valley.Mail was taken daily to and from KangarooValley Post Office by Peter and later Jenny, forthe convenience of the local community.Today a magnificent gum tree marks the site.My thanks to Peter Gerrey, the younger, for hispersonal memories of the Budgong Gapfamilies.These teachers in remoter areas of the Valleyare to be admired for their dedication to thehandful of children under their care and it iscommendable that most of their chargesreceived enough basic education to enable themto obtain employment and lead worth while andproductive lives.30 years Electrical experienceWATTAMOLLA --- 1880-1950.This school experienced quite a colourfulhistory.In April 1880, following a public meeting, theresidents of the area petitioned the Council ofEducation in Sydney to establish a PublicSchool.From 1870 there had been a Provisional School,operating from the Union Church building onhalf an acre of ground adjoining Priddle’s farm.The space was considered too small for the fortyfour students, the furniture inadequate and theteacher’s cramped residence was in a state ofdisrepair.George Priddle, William Brandon, RobertCranston, William Irvine and Patrick Guihenundertook the task of improving this situation atBrogers Creek School.The new school, which was built a shortdistance from the main road on a site betweenPriddle’s and Walker’s land, opened inDecember 1870, with Charles Abbott as teacher.The church trustees permitted the teacher toreside in the Union church for another six yearsuntil a comfortable home of four rooms with asemi detached kitchen was built for AlexanderMc Phee in 1886.In 1871, the name had been changed toWattamolla Provisional and before its elevationto a permanent school it was the scene of ratherinteresting incidents.Albert Barrett was appointed in January 1873 ata salary of 48 pounds per annum.In 1878, he had an altercation with a localfarmer, Robert Cranston at the Debating Class.‘The pen or the sword has the greater influenceon the nation’ produced some heated words andunpleasant language.Mr Barrett faced the Magistrate and the schoolclosed for three months until the case was heard.He was fined a guinea and court costs and thenre-instated as Principal.But life was destined not to run smoothly for MrBarrett.He owned a farm six miles away in KangarooValley, called ‘Eagles Nest’ and also acted aspostmaster for mail from Kangaroo Valley toBroger’s Creek on Wednesday and Saturdayevenings.Mr Cranston withdrew his children from theschool over the swearing incident and disputedMr Barrett’s inability to lower the school fees ofsixpence per child.(Continued on page 45)

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 17Human intereststories, news andhappenings fromourAnglican Church -Church of the Good ShepherdWe were extremely saddened at thepassing of Gloriel Knox a wonderfulmember of our congregation and theKangaroo Valley community.She was a humble Christian woman whowas a never afraid to share her faith.Her deep commitment to following Jesus wasalways evident in sickness and in health. Thepeace she had when facing death demonstratedthat her faith was real and new she had nothingto fear when she came before the throne of God.The congregation has been unified by thealbescence of a minister in Valley, with manymembers of the church coming forward to takeon the extra roles and responsibilities.The teaching has been varied but strongly basedon Christian freedom growing in our personalrelationship with Jesus.Letters to the Editor (continued)(Continued from page 4)Winning may have been the fact that they tookthe opportunity to perform publicly for the firsttime, tried some new material or took thechance and performed their own work.It is not tabloid headline grabbing material but Ihave to report that the behaviour of the entrantswas exemplary.Shock, horror! Readers of this letter can takecomfort in this news in contrast to the popularmedia stereotypes portrayed of Australia’s“binge drinking…dumbed downed…ice taking”youth.I would have to suggest that Australia’s culturalfuture looks sound.None of this could have occurred if it was notfor the “Wildfyre day”.It provided the literal and figurative platform forour regions young to put their “wares “ondisplay. It could not have happened but for thegood work of the volunteer work of theorganising committee, the judges, the caterersKevination Sound and all the efforts of manybehind the scenes workers. Well done.A special thanks to the talented Chelsea Cookwho played for us her own piece “Jacqeline”and the winning band Underwater Taxi who, aspart of their prize, can be seen at a forthcominggig at Nowra’s own “Tea Club”.You too can show your support for them byattending their gig.A heart felt thankyou, from a parent whose own16 year old son participated in the battle of thebands, for giving our young a chance to performpublicly.Yours sincerelyPS A special thankyou to the band whoperformed the song “Dragonball Z”.You have brought forward my visit to thehearing centre by a couple of years.Alex LoveNeil Percival has been speaking on the fruits ofthe Spirit when he has come over from Berry.The last sermon was on patience, which is verytimely for we are all eagerly waiting for a newminister to be appointed to the vacant positionin our church.From the Communityat St Joseph’sWe are presently collecting for the StVincent de Paul Annual Winter Appeal.There is always an increased call on theSociety’s services during the winter.Our local conference is doing its part to assist.Fr Ronan joined parishioners from GoodShepherd at Gloriel’s Funeral Service at StJude’s Church in Bowral.Archbishop Marcus Loane preached verypowerfully at the grand age of ninety five.The parish is billeting two hundred youngpilgrims coming from Motherwell in Scotlandand Denver in the USA prior to World YouthDay.Some generous Valley residents are doing thesame for some pilgrims from France in theweek afterward.The Chaplain, a French priest, has the very ‘un-French’ surname Williamson!On canteen mattersMaybe you never really thought about the funaspect of working at the School Canteen. Maybeyou thought it was arduous toil from 9am to2pm, or coping with unruly demanding childrengiving you a headache, or boring co-workersdiscussing their medical misfortunes with suchvigour you needed therapy.Well if you were prepared to give credence tothe fun aspect you would be onto a winner.A quick check with the Mums and Dads andvolunteers from the generation before that fromin the community that offer their services once aterm will confirm---it really is fun.There are few angels among school children butthere are definitely no ill-mannered youngWe have noted sadly the negative attitude ofthe media to World Youth Day.Journalists and media producers have atendency to deride religion in general andChristianity in particular.The preacher recently noted that the BBC’slatest presentation of Charlotte Bronte’s novelJane Eyre (released in 2006 and shown on theABC late last year) excised most references toher strong Anglican faith, and this, eventhough it influenced her major decisions.The novel abounds with Scripture referencesand allusions and concludes with a verse fromthe Book of Revelations.It is not just a superbly written romance, butalso a telling drama of temptation, sin,forgiveness, suffering, perseverance andredemption.One can’t help wondering if the producersconsidered that this would be too much forthose in our more secular society who do notappreciate its Christian heritage and treasuredsource - God’s revelation of His love in HisSon.The Jane of the BBC production was a verydifferent character to the one Charlotte Brontecreated in her 1847 original – something like abody without a soul.people to bother you at the Kangaroo ValleySchool Canteen.On any Tuesday during school term you willfind a cheerful duo of co-workers withinteresting conversations about a variety oftopics and there is definitely laughter and goodfellowship.The Canteen raises considerable funds forschool equipment and the money is wiselyspent by the P&C and the Principal.The school’s educational facilities are atestimony to the diligence and hard work of thesupporters in the Community.Do have a think about whether you couldmanage a Tuesday, once a school term to helpwith the Canteen Roster and contact MargaretBarton at the Primary School --4651182

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 18

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 19Valley shops all ready for the first Winter FestivalFollowing the success of the Christmaslate shopping and music night, theKangaroo Valley Tourist Association isholding a Winter Festival on Saturday12 July.A number of festive activities have beenorganised.The day begins with Kangaroo Valley Marketsat the Showground - with 60 stalls booked in forthis July day.There's something for everyone from crafts, tofresh produce to Indian curries.Lots of fun too for the kids, including a jumpingcastle and other goodies.Late inthe daythelocalshopsandcafeswillhavesmallevents -music,mulledwine,festivefare - and most will be open until 8 pm.There’s lots of action at the Friendly Inn, see if youcan remember your Scouts training at the Boil a BillyContest at 3 pm.There’ll be a bonfire and live music through theevening, a great chance to relax with a glass of hotmulled wine by the open fire.And for those with energy left, the Kangaroo ValleyFolk Festival group will host a Bush Dance at theHall with funds raised going to support the next KVFolk Festival. Headlining the night will be local bandCeltic Craic.Light refreshments will be available.Tickets available at the door.A large local turnout coupled with visitors made theDecember event a big success.Don't let winter keep you indoors. Join the fun andcelebrate winter!Festival is calling out for some good GuysIn 1603 Guy Fawkes tried to blow up the English ParliamentBonfires and crackers celebrate this eventMake a Guy and bring him to the bonfire behind the Friendly Innon Saturday 12 July at 5 pm.Ask your friends to help, he's just like a scarecrowYou'll need old clothes, a hat and lots of stuffingSee you there Saturday July 12Presentingartworks byRhonda Punnet,Sally D’Ovelle,Sheila Young,AFMing Gu,Leah ParrishKirsten Deakin,Laurie De Ville,Janet Mulligan,Larraine Hahlos,Di Hamer,Sue WilliamsonColin Williams,Rhona ParkerandsculpturesbyOle NielsenandEloise Lamond10 am to 4 pmDailyThe Gallery in Kangaroo Valley149 Moss Vale Road, telephone 44 651 621email larraine@onaustralia.com.auAbove A classic oil by Laurie De VilleRight “Unleash Love” by Eloise Lamond

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 20P: 4465 1996 F: 4465 1906 www.kangaroovalleyharcourts.com.auGoogle based listing anotherfirst for HarcourtsHarcourts ongoing leadership in the realestate sector has been further reinforced following an agreement with Googleallowing Harcourts property listings to be included in its latest online initiativeGoogle Base.Harcourts is the first real estate group in Australasia to provide its clientsproperties with automatic exposure across all Google search websites.We truly recognize that being at the cutting edge of technology ensures that ourclients’ properties have maximum exposure and enables buyers searching onlineevery available option to find Harcourts property listings.AUCTIONPROPERTIES6TH JULY 08BERRY BOWLING CLUBTips for WinterIndoors and OutWith winter here it is time to prepare forcolder weather – especially if you’reconsidering putting your property on themarket during the upcoming months.With leaves falling and increased rainfall too it’s a good time to clear out yourgutters and drains to prevent flooding.Think about pruning trees that areblocking out light, obstructing accessways or could cause problems withpower lines in windy weather. Tryplanting some bright seasonal and/orevergreen plants to give your garden alift. Inspect your roofing for any loomingleaks and that you’ve dealt with exteriorrot, moss or mould, deterioratingcladding or peeling paintwork as it willonly worsen in wet winter weather. Asfor the interior, ensure you have goodinsulation, heating and ventilation inplace, features that should definitely behighlighted in marketing material and/or by the sales consultant if you areselling. It’s also worth ensuring wornhinges and locks are attended to, thatyour electric blankets are checked andyour fireplace and chimne inspected.Batteries in your smoke alarms couldalso be replaced at this time of year.Withless daylight hours ahead it may also bea good time to ensure your lightbulbsare all working, that theyare brightenough and that strategically placedlamps help illuminate darker areas,particularly as light-filledhomes aremore appealing to potential buyers.Kangaroo Valley createswide interest.The market has been very active acrossKangaroo Valley, with strong inquiry fora wide range of properties. The sourceof inquiry is just as broad with manyinterstate and international inquiriesfinding their way to our door, but this isprobably a result of our broader internetpresence and our national profile.Our auction properties are enjoyingplenty of inspections with good interest.Traditionally a quieter time of year thecooler winter months are sometimes thebest time to market your property asthere are fewer properties on the markettoo compete against.The first six months of the year hasseen a noted decline in people buyingproperties as just weekenders. We havesold over $20million worth of real estatethis year and 85% of that has beenbought by people wishing to live in theproperties permanently. Many of thosehave been from people downsizing fromtheir small acreages, however still themajority is those relocating to the areafrom Sydney or other parts of the state.13 Nowra Rd—Fitzroy Falls928 Wattamolla Rd—Wattamolla353 Bendeela Rd—Kangaroo ValleyThe award winning team atKANGAROO VALLEYHARCOURTS

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 21Report on Remexio scholarshipsThese letters (verbatim) were written bythe three Remexio girls who are studyingto become teachers at the BaucauTeachers' College.Chris Nobel has just returned from a trip toTimor in which she visited the girls whoare receiving scholarships from the KV-Remexio Partnership.Much to her disappointment, she found that theyare living in very poor conditions and on oneoccasion had so little money they went withoutfood for a day.The partnership will be increasing their livingaway from home allowance and if readerswould like to assist, please forward a cheque tothe Treasurer, KV-Remexio Partnership C/- PostOffice.Your continued support is greatly appreciated.Chris will send a full account of her trip for thenext issue of the Voice.Twon Central.I'm verry happenes, to acceptance schoolship,want to say thank you to Cangaru valley for herall help, I can continued my school.For Mr. Cristy thank's to your visit me inBaucau, best regarts to all officer of CangaruValley.And than many thank's to Cangaru valleyFor me: Virginia da SilvaTo: Kangaroo Valley in AustraliaHello Cangru vally how do you do?My name is Agostinha Tilman, my origin inRemexioFor now to Continued my School in ICFP, atthe Semester II.I live in Baucau Central, old twon.I'm happenes to your of all help.For sister Cristine I'm happenes to your visit inBaucau.And than, say thank you to cangru vally foryour help.In spite of, to know one another, of you.But there, at this latter I'm say many thank's toyour help to me.And more than many thank's to Cangru vallyand best regrest to Sister Cristine.And than thank you Verry mUch!From me: Agostinha TilmanRespect me:My name is Virginia, my Village Rural inRemexio, I'm student ICFP in Baucau, OldHallo....How are you Kangaroo Valley?My name is Eduarda de Jesus Amaral and I'ma 20 years old. Now I live in Baucau, centraland I'm studying in ICIP Baucau for secondsemester. I'm verry happy when Kangaroo Valley came tohelp me to pay my schoolship and I also verryhappy when sister cristin cam to Baucau tovisted me, and then thank you verry much foryour help.I hope you enjoy your time in Australia.Exclusive use of100 acres withmagnificent viewsThe perfect setting forSpectacular weddingsSpecial occasionsGroup bookingsInspirational conferences55 Radiata RoadKangaroo ValleyTelephone 44 651 472For bookingsplease call(02) 8969 6704www.kangaroovalleybushretreat.com.au

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 22WILDFYRE08Another year, another festival!It’s always interesting to get the feedbackfrom youth and parents who travel intothe Valley to perform at our festival.Even though the basic elements ofWILDFYRE have not changed since last year– Pinewood Derby, Bollywood Dance andAfrican Drumming Workshops, Talent Quest,and Battle of the Bands – the event had a reallydifferent feel this year.The staging looked great; the event hadevolved.Several veteran parents of other band compscame to us to congratulate us on the smoothrunning and the relaxed vibe, emphasising thatthey knew how much work these events are!Confident performer Zane NutterMany were amazed to seeyouth running the show allday – well done Valleyyouth!Karen Harrison, Mardi Okeand I worked closely withthe Year 6 School Leadersthis year.With youth numbers in theValley declining, they sawthe importance of keepingcontact and doing projectslike this together as they head off to a variety ofdifferent schools next year.They, with the Youth Team, and some youngervolunteers, rose to the occasion with avengeance this year, helping with setup andmanaging the photography, filming,commentating of the derby, Talent Quest andBattle; running the face painting, balloons andyouth raffles and collating the scores asrequired.Many also entered competitions, joined in theworkshops, and performed!Previous winners from FYRE events, AlexIntihar and Josh Stapleton, also comprised halfof the judges’ panel this year.There were some highlights! Francois Bocquet,formerly of the Marcel Marceau MimeCompany played to a full house before theTalent Quest, with preschoolers right through toyoung adults absolutely spellbound!Taking the derby into the Pavilion reducedsome of the exhilarating chaos this year.We got more rides and amusements but realisedthat the event was busy enough without them –there was so much to do!Our purchase of the top end Americanelectronic timer was a real hit!Thank you Lazyfish for getting the software towork for us on the day and sponsoring theevent!There were some drawbacks, too.Chris Nobel and her team of puppeteers playedto a packed room at the Hall.There were some sound conflicts and space waslimited.This was a last minute addition to the line upand they were so good that we really did them adisservice not to have put them on at the mainhall!Kevonation Music was great as our DJ, but wehad some problems with sound checks for thebands that would need to resolved next time.We were really disappointed that we could notget the quota of adult help we really needed torun the festival – logistics, catering, gate, setupand security remain adult areas of responsibilityfor the festival – and meeting all these tasks onthe day was a real challenge.However, it was encouraging that many parentssaw for the first time the important leadershipexperience running the event can be for theirkids, and we have started to receive offers ofhelp from some surprising quarters for futureevents.In truth, we need more help to do this uniqueevent justice or indeed even to be able to runWILDFYRE in future.Dyami Kirwan and Molly MatherWinners of the encouragement awardBUBBLES & FLUFFDog Day Spawishes to announce its opening at Shop 4, Stan Burt Arcade, BERRYPhone Colleen on 44643307 or 1300FLUFFYfor your family friend's Luxury Grooming Experience.Shampoo and BlowdryPedicureTrim or styleand quality accessories available

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 23Battle of the Bands a show stopperTalent Quest WinnersA great gasp went up in the packed hall this yearwhen Kyash Nutter burst on the stage to dance‘Wild Strawberries’ with his brother Zane.Bright, outrageous and larger than life, it cameas no surprise to see the duo take out first placein the Junior Talent Quest.Indy Nutter earned second place with someheartfelt singing, and Cailin McCloud, IsabellaMoore and Lauren Barnes showed that theywere learning fast with this, their variouslysecond and third trysts at the event, with thirdprize for their rendition of ‘The New Girl inTown’.Haydn Martin won the FYRE EncouragementAward on guitar.We decided to add a Youth category to theTalent Quest this year, which was highlysuccessful with several band entrants alsoentering the Talent Quest individually on theday.It made for particularly memorableentertainment to see kids as young as five up onstage right through to older youth!As one band parent observed, ‘everyone was awinner at this event’!Youth first prize went to guitarist Joe Knott withsecond prize to Tim Waters and third to ChelseaCook.The FYRE Encouragement Award went toDyami Kirwan and Molly Mather from theValley.WILDFYRERegional Battle of the BandsThis year we were very pleased to have entrantsfrom every Council area in the wider Illawarra,with prizes spread across the region.The standard was exceptionally high!First prize went to Highlands band, UnderwaterTaxi, who can look forward to recording theiralbum at Studio 313 in Nowra, having thealbum designed with Morf Design andlaunching their CD at The Tea Club.Second and third prizes were for recording timeat Nowra Youth Centre music studios and thesewent to went to Kiama band, The PolaroidPeople and Entourage from The Shoalhavenrespectively.The FYRE Encouragement Award went toBennie James and The Hesitant Few fromWollongong/Shellharbour.Talent DevelopmentDrama class in actionWatching the progress of our youth herein the Valley at the Talent Quests wehold at the Show and at WILDFYRE,this year I could really see how ourworkshop program fits hand in glovewith the performance opportunities wecreate with FYRE.Our drama classes with Sarah Butlerhave been well attended, with moreworkshops being offered next term overthree days to more targeted age groups.There will also be classes offered overthe July school holidays – watch yourschool newsletters for details or contactSarah direct on 4465 2632 orsarahjbutler@bigpond.com to register yourinterest.Please note – friends from out of town are verywelcome to join in!We certainly hope that WILDFYRE next yearwill include some street theatre with our localyouth!Our Guitar Clinic continues on a fortnightlybasis on Sundays with two classes – beginnersat 3pm and intermediate at 3:45pm at theSchool Hall.Call Josh on 4465 1877 to register your interest– they are free!We hope to see more of you on stage soon!Thank youFinally, we would like to thank the youth whoran the day. Ben Winch, rising from his sickbed, cycling across town and hosting the TalentQuest with Brooke Pritchard deserves somespecial mention.For his efforts he won the FYRE WoW! Awardthis year.We also thank our adult volunteers, some whohelped out even though they don’t have childrenliving in the Valley, just because they saw thevalue of the event.Thanks to the Kangaroo Valley P & C Incvolunteers who handled the excellent cateringonce again, and thanks to FYRE parents thathelped.We also thank our sponsors – Harcourts, MusicCentral and Kangaroo Valley Earthmovingwho sponsored the Talent Quest; Studio 313,Morf Design, Nowra Youth Centre, The TeaClub and Aquatique, who sponsored the Battle;Lazyfish, Space French Polishing and TheFriendly Inn, who sponsored the PinewoodDerby; and Shoalhaven City Council andIndent, who have sponsored all of FYRE’sprojects this year.We would also like to thank Kangaroo ValleyGrocers, who helped us enormously sourcingcatering supplies and Oshun Leye,Gametraders, Roxy Cinema, Shoalhaven CityLanes, Equestworld, Video Ezy and theFriendly Grocer for sponsoring raffle prizesand various awards.We have yet to hear of any all-ages youthfestival anywhere quite like WILDFYRE, butit’s from the Valley, so we remain unsurprised.If you have never seen it, check it out nextyear!Kerrie McLeod for FYRE.

K. V. Markets becoming popularJuly 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 24Shaolin Abbott at entertainment centre openingThe market for July is set to be a wonderfulfamily event and our biggest yet: over sixtyThe Venerable Abbott of the Shaolin The Abbott, Shi Yong Xin, and Shaolinstalls are now booked in as regular stallholdersTemple will visit Australia for the Temple CEO Qian Daliang will visit withand the atmosphere of relaxation and good funofficial opening of the Shoalhaven young monks from the temple from the is just getting better every month. This monthEntertainment Centre.Henan province in China to meet with the market coincides with the Winter FestivalAustralian politicians and attend the and the Shoalhaven Folk Club (the organisers ofofficial opening of the Entertainment the market) is holding a Bush Dance with theCentre.lively music of Celtic Craic to get your merryShoalhaven City Mayor Councillor Greg feet dancing. Soup and rolls will be served and aWatson said the delegation was welcome to the night of good family fun awaits you.city for the official opening.Regular visitors to the market will already be“The Venerable Abbott Shi Yong Xin is still familiar with the wonderful range of goodshopeful that we can develop the Shoalin temple available right on our doorsteps but, for theand associated development at Comberton record, here is an idea of what is on offer:Grange, but this is now with the Department of Fresh, often organically grown, fruit andPlanning and there is plenty of bureaucratic vegetables; Crisp and delicious, second to none,inertia,” Clr Watson said.Batlow apples; Local produce, as available;“For the Abbott to visit at the opening of our Indian vegetarian food & cooking classes, bymagnificent $23.5 million entertainment centre arrangement; Fudge Addiction; Cheryl’sis recognition from an international dignitary entrancing cakes; Café Bellacino; Communitythat this centre will host many wonderful sausage sizzle stand; Turkish Gozleme; Books,national and international artists and performers second hand & new; Timber crafts; Orchids;in the future.”Outdoor plants & garden sculpture;Following the official opening on 5 July the Environmentally friendly products (cornstarchShoalhaven Entertainment Centre will offer a bin liners, etc); Natural fertiliser from wormvariety of wonderful artists and performances. castings; Original design jewellery & fashionclothing; Soft furnishings & homewares;For more information visit the internet site Gemstones; Collectibles; Original photographyat http://& art and an ever expanding selection.www.shoalhavenentertainment.com.au/. Come and enjoy the music under the trees.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 25Entertainment centre opens up a new worldShoalhaven City is set to become anentertainment hub for the South Coastwith the opening of the ShoalhavenEntertainment Centre next month.The new centre will see many performing artssuch as Music of the Night, Barry Crocker’sShow on ‘Banjo’ Paterson, Antal Szalai and hisGypsy Orchestra, Active Kidz, Menopause theMusical.Later in the year there will be performances ofShirley Valentine, Hot August Nights andHerman’s Hermits.According to Shoalhaven City MayorCouncillor Greg Watson, the entertainmentcentre will feature national and internationalperformers and acts.“This new $24 million centre will help toestablish Nowra as the heart of a regional citywhich is becoming a vibrant and engagingplace to see top class performances, fromdance and cabaret to shows or concerts.“We already have a fine Arts Centre whichshowcases the best of our city’s visual artistsand craftspeople. Now we also have a centrewhich showcases the best performing acts inthe nation.“This new flexible and state of the artentertainment centre will also allow exhibitionsand conferences of many different sizes to beheld in Nowra. There will also be a space forexperimental theatre or small performances,where you require no more than about 180guests.”For further information on coming events, visitShoalhaven Entertainment Centre’s internetsite at www.shoalhavenentertainment.com.auor call the box office on (02) 4429 5750.Pictured left: Centre Manager Patrick Corrigan

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 26Everything you imagine!The ShoalhavenEntertainment Centreopens on the 5 July, with avaried program of eventsand a two weekcommunity festival tomark the official openingof this twenty threemillion dollar ($23m)facility.This project represents not onlya significant investment byCouncil to provide a ‘signature’building for the Shoalhaven butalso a statement of Council’scommitment to promise andprovide for performing arts,conferencing and conventionactivity within the City.It also represents a significantmilestone in the maturation ofarts and culture in the City.Shoalhaven EntertainmentCentre is a culmination ofmany years of planning thatcommenced 1994 when Councilfirst articulated the desire toexplore a cultural centre for theCity. Since that time twoconsultants’ studies have beenundertaken along withextensive communityconsultation. The project hasbeen supported by grantfunding from the FederalGovernment ($3m) and NSWState Government ($110,000).The uniqueness of the design isthe movable floors andretractable seating. This allowsthe orchestra pit to travel from thebasement through level one, up tostage level, to effectively thrust thestage into the auditorium. The level 2floor can be lowered down to level oneto create a larger and more flexibleexhibition space in ‘flat floor mode’. Allthe seating in the venue is retractableand this allows the venue to beconverted from a theatre to anexhibition or dining venue. The twomain spaces, the studio and theauditorium, are quite separate and canhold their own functions at the sametime. The back of house facilities forperformers and stage areas have beenmade as large as possible to enable thevenue to attract major touringproductions to the Shoalhaven inpreference to other venues.“Share the Experience”July will see the grand openingof the ShoalhavenEntertainment Centre and it iscertainly opening with a varietyof excellent performances.Shoalhaven City Mayor Clr GregWatson said: “On Saturday 5 Julywe are finally opening the doors ofthe $23.5 million ShoalhavenEntertainment Centre which willpresent the some of the best touringand local performing artsattractions available. We hope thecitizens of the Shoalhaven takeadvantage of this wonderful facility.I encourage everybody to share theexperience with their familyand friends and visit theCentre in July.”This new entertainment centreboasts a huge 930 seat mainauditorium and an intimate192 seat theatre, and is set tobe packed in July when itplays host to a program ofamazing performances andtalented national andinternational stars.The Official Opening will takeplace on Saturday 5 July, aswell as five exciting specialperformances in the followingweeks by three popular acts.“On Sunday 6 July at 2pmDale Burridge and DanielleEverett, the original Australianstars of Andrew LloydGala opening night of the Shoalhaven EntWebber's musical masterpiece,Phantom of the Opera, will presenttheir spine-tingling show, Music of theNight. The show features many greathits from Freddy Mercury and Pucciniand should not be missed.” Clr Watsonadded.On Thursday and Friday 10 and 11July the great Aussie legend BarryCrocker is performing his smash hitplay, Barry Crocker’s Banjo, takingaudiences on a journey throughAustralian history and the great worksof poet Andrew ‘Banjo’ Paterson.On Friday 18 and Saturday 19 July,Katy Manning (from Dr Who) deliversan outstanding performance in Me andJezebel, the true story of Hollywoodlegend, Bette Davis.As part of the opening celebrations inJuly, the Shoalhaven EntertainmentCentre is running a “Share theexperience” promotion.Book now for Music of the Night, BarryCrocker’s Banjo or Katy Manning’s Meand Jezebel and receive one free ticketfor a friend, so you can truly “share theexperience”.For information and bookings, visit theCentre’s website,www.shoalhavenentertainment.com.au or call the Box Office on (02)4429 5757.The “Share the experience”promotion will sell out fast, so booknow to secure your place in theShoalhaven Entertainment Centre’sopening celebrations.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 27tertainment Centre will play to a crowded house!Top acts foropening showOn July 5 ShoalhavenEntertainment Centre will beofficially opened and to celebrate914 guests, including communitygroups, local businesses andmembers of parliament, havebeen invited to be a part of theCentre’s first major event.The opening eveningwill feature a programof live music andentertainmentincludingperformances by oneof Australia’s mostaccomplished musicaltheatre performers,Peter CousinsPeter Cousens,flautist, Jane Rutter,dancer and soprano vocalist, TrishaCrowe and jazz diva, Grace Knight.Local artists performing include theShoalhaven Youth Orchestra andNowra High School’s dance ensemble.All-round entertainer and comedian,Neil Hanson will be the master ofceremonies for the occasion.Members of the public are invited tovisit the Centre on July 5 and join aguided tour between 12-3pm. A mix ofyoung local artists will be performingthroughout the afternoon.Admission is free and groups areencouraged to book on 4429 5752.Staff behind the CentreAppointed in August 2007, CentreManager Patrick Corrigan bringsa wealth of industry experiencefrom his previous roles as Managerat Mandurah Performing ArtsCentre in WA and more recently asManager of the State Theatre inSydney.He is ably supported by AndrewTweedie, Technical Coordinator,Cassandra Charlton, Front ofHouse / Promotions Coordinatorand Justine Gould, AdministrativeAssistant.Andrew comes to the role of TechnicalCoordinator with an extraordinary 20-year background in theatre and eventmanagement and has worked on manyperformances and events with localand international stars includingSantana, AC/DC and Red Hot ChilliPeppers.Cassandra has coordinatedconferences and events, initiated andrun arts incubator spaces like Sydney’s‘sQuareOne’ (a youth volunteer project)and online youth media initiativessuch as Vibewire’s ‘e-Festival of Ideas’.Justine has 10 years experience as apersonal assistant to the managingdirectors of insurance industry sectorsAon Risk Services and GallagherBroking Services of Sydney which seesher well placed to support the myriadof administrative challenges of thebusiness side of the Centre.The Shoalhaven Entertainment Centrewill also employ over 50 casual staffwho will work as box office andNeil Hanson, MC for the openingNight’s eciting programPatrick Corrigan, Centre Managercloakroom attendants, ushersand theatre technicians.The onsite catering service,Gourmet Fare Catering, willalso employ a pool of localcasuals.For informationand bookings,visit the Centre’swebsite,or call theBox Office on(02) 4429 5757.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 28Shoalhaven Entertainment Centre Events diaryMusic of the NightSunday 6 July 2pmOriginal Australian stars of Phantom ofthe Opera, Dale Burridge and DanielleEverett perform Puccini, Lloyd Webber,Freddy Mercury and more.All tickets - $18Share the Experience offer: Book nowand receive one free ticket and share the experiencewith a friend.Barry Meets BanjoThursday 10 July 2pmFriday 11 July 8pmBarry Crocker’s musical journey throughthe life of Australian poet, BanjoPatterson. A celebration of Australia’shistory not to be missed.All tickets $10Share the Experience offer: Book now and receiveone free ticket and share the experience with afriend.Active KidzSaturday 12 July 11am & 1pmIf you liked the ABC TV show, then you’ll love ActiveKidz on stage! Join young fitness presenters, Scottand Amy, as they explore different types of physicalactivity: at the beach, at the sports field or even inyour backyard.Free event.NIDA on Tour15-20 JulyNIDA on Tour provides access to expertise in theatre,film and television, by bringing short courses toregional centres across Australia. Acting Intensiveand Acting Techniques are workshops designed foraspiring actors 16 years and over. Bookings:www.nida.edu.auPlaces begin at $200Me and Jezabel – Katy Manning (Dr Who)Friday 18 July 8pmSaturday 19 July 8pmCelluloid fantasy meets real life when playwrightElizabeth Fuller invites Bette Davis to stay for a day…and she stays for a month! This is a hilarious storyfilled with wonderful humour, vulnerability andsadness.All tickets $10Share the Experience offer: Book now and receiveone free ticket and share the experience with afriend.Antal Szalai & His Gypsy OrchestraTuesday 22 July 8pmAntal Szalai comes from a family of gypsy musiciansand became the leader of the Hungarian GypsyOrchestra in 1969. Come hear their evergreentraditional Hungarian and international gypsymelodies.Adult - $45.90, Concession - $39.90Evening DelightsSaturday 2 August 8pmAn evening of song, with the beautiful voice ofSoprano, Roberta McGregor, accompanied by JemHarding and newly formed massed choir, theShoalhaven Singers.Tickets: Adult $15, Concession $12, Groups 10+ $10Berry Musicale presents The Shoalhaven PromsSaturday 9 August 7pmFeaturing the Bluescope Steel Orchestra,Shoalhaven Lydian Singers, Olivia Corish and PaulCambridge, traditional songs from the LondonProms and the chance to conduct the orchestra forthe best-dressed Promenader.Bookings: www.berrymusicale.orgTickets $25.00Shirley ValentineTuesday 12 – Friday 15 August 8pmSaturday 16 August 2pm & 8pmThis award winning play is a funny yet moving storyof a slightly older woman kicking her heels (for goodit turns out) of British ignorance and insularity.Great deals for group bookers!$38 Standard, $34 Concession, $30 Groups of 10+Hot August NightSaturday 23 August 8pmThe ultimate Neil Diamond tribute show starring AlJames, the former lead singer of UK chart-toppingband The Honeycombs.Adult $24, Concession $20, Groups 10+ $18South Coast Tourism AwardsWednesday 27 AugustFABBASaturday 13 September 8pmThis ABBA tribute show reunitesaudiences with Benny, Bjorn,Agnetha & Frida, who are all lookingfabba-ulous thanks to the modernmiracles of plastic surgery &liposuction.Adult $24, Concession $20, Group10+ $18Illawarra Wedding ExpoSunday 14 September 10am-3pm$5 entryHerman’s HermitsThursday 18 September 8pmThe mid-60’s music scene was dominated by BritishActs; three of which became household names –The Beatles, The Rolling Stones and Herman’sHermits. One night only!$39.90 Adult, $36.90 Concession, $36.90 Groups of10+For booking, venue and ticketing information log-onto our websitewww.shoalhavenentertainment.com.au or call theBox Office on 44295757.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 29FRIENDS OF THE BRUSH-TAILED ROCK-WALLABYINCORPORATEDPresident’s Report….Dear Friends,Since the the last Newsletter, theFriends have:Held two Executive Committeemeetings.ABN 71 795 420 274PO BOX 6182 KANGAROO VALLEY NSW 2577Continued to keep up to date andparticipate in the NSW captivebreeding programme.Finalised a Business Plan for thegroup.Positioned donation boxes andmembership forms at severallocations in the KangarooValley.Participated in a WIRES Fundraiserin Bowral, NSW, and donatedthe Friends' video "BouncingBack" to the event.The Friends' BTRW costumewas also worn on the night.Kept in contact with WaterfallSprings Conservation Park onthe progress of "Warugul", thewww.rockwallaby.org.aubtrw@fastrac.net.auNPWS News….Three Brush-tailed Rock-wallabies havenow had a little over 6 months to settleinto one of our colonies in theShoalhaven.This colony had only a single femaleremaining at it – Roxy.Two males (Adam and Hunter) and afemale (Rosie) from a colony in theHunter Valley were released into thecolony in November 2007 to give Roxy achance to breed and rescue the colonyfrom its threat of immediate extinction.The animals were released with radiocollars fitted so that they could beregularly tracked to see whether theysettled into the colony or moved offpost release.Over the first 4 months all the BTRWsettled in well and were regularly seenon a number of remote cameras set uparound the colony.The older of the two males (Adam)began to turn up in all the photos thatRoxy was in and both males werephotographed showing interest in thetwo females.While to date there have been nophotos of pouch young with their headsNewsletter – July 2008young male from one of ourlocal BTRW colonies who wasincluded in the captivebreeding programme at WSC.Warugul is now breeding and thetwo females from the WataganMountains both have pouchedyoung. Maybe the KangarooValley and Watagan Mountainsgenetics together will producesome robust offspring! Let'shope so.Kept in touch with the happeningsand progress at theShoalhaven colony where, lastNovember, three BTRW's weretranslocated from the wild tothis colony to endeavour toprevent the colony frombecoming extinct.Participated in ongoing andintensive fox control. As aresult of all the rain over thelast 18 months, fox numbershave increased and foxes areon the move. It is importantthat the Community continuesout of the pouches, we have had a fewphotos of the females with potentialsmall pouch bulges but nothing yetconfirmed.Fingers crossed.Unfortunately over the past fewmonths, despite extensive efforts, wehave been unable to pick up a signalfrom Hunter’s collar at or beyond thecolony.We are unsure whether this is due to afaulty collar, whether he has movedout of the colony (being the nondominantmale) or whether he is nolonger alive.Prior to his disappearance he hasmoved right down one end of thecolony away from where our remotecameras were positioned. Despitemoving a camera down his end of thecolony following his signal loss, he hasnot been seen on any of the remotecameras since.We are now trying to get an aircraft tofly over the general area and radiotrack from above in case we can pickhim up further a field from the air.Fox baiting is continuing in KangarooValley, Illaroo and Bugong areas toto support fox baiting, as foxcontrol is an integral part ofthe BTRW recoveryprogramme. The Friendsappreciate this support, whichcontributes significantly to thesuccess of the programme.Had a meeting with ShoalhavenCouncil representatives on thenext stage ofthe Bushcare Plan on BTRWhabitat. The Friends arewaiting to hear from Councilon what has been proposed.The Friends' AGM will be held inSeptember with the date to beadvised.Please come along, and also considernominating for the Committee.The Friends encourage you all tomaintain your memberships, andencourage others to join.Many thanks for your support,Susan Robertson,President.help protect all the colonies from foxpredation.We are now baiting one week a monthin Kangaroo Valley and for 2consecutive weeks every secondmonth in the Illaroo area.Other news on the BTRW front is thatthe biannual fox shoot program inKangaroo Valley and Illaroo has juststarted up again.A number of private properties inthese areas have given consent toallow a contractor to conduct foxshooting and trapping to take place forthe protection of local BTRW.The wet weather has stalled theprogram which is now expected to becompleted in early July.At a small BTRW colony nearGoulburn a goat shoot has resulted in18 goats removed from the area.The area is also fox baited regularlythroughout the year.It is hoped that the goat shoot willfurther reduce pressures on the colonyas goats are known to compete withBTRW for rocky habitat.

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July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 31Children andMobile PhonesThe current mobile telephones are much closerto computers with functionality such as theability to take photographs, videos, chat tofriends via the internet, act as a GPS andnavigator, play music & movies, browse theinternet as well as make conventional phonecalls.According to Dolly Australia 4 out 5 teens willhave a mobile phone but it is interesting to notethe little control or direction most parents haveover their child’s mobile phone usage.The Floppy household has one child with nomobile phone and no intentions to purchase forsaid child but the Floppy household also hosts 2teenage girls each weekend who are completephone junkies and have owned phones sincethey were very young.The two phone junkies suggest that the“Floppies” are hopelessly out of touch with thereal world.Are the Floppies hopeless luddites cruellydenying their child access to instantcommunication with his mates?This month Mr Floppy cuts to the heart ofwhether he is cruel and unusual or just plainsensible.We tend to be complete suckers for the cleverand manipulative marketing of themobile phone companies.We tell ourselves that instant communicationand the fact that our children can contact useasily makes our children safer, our busylives can be managed and rescheduled at a whimor in response to a crisis.But there are downsides.There have been a number of studies conductedabout the possible effects of mobile telephoneusage on children and their brains.Effect on the brainDoes using a mobile phone give you cancer orbrain tumours?While there have been a number of media beatups about mobile phone usage and cancer therehas been no hard evidence to support a directlink.The Cancer Council fact sheet statesConclusions• At present, the research evidence suggests thatthere is no reason for concern over harmfuleffects, including cancer, from using mobilephones.However, lack of evidence does not proveabsence of risk.• As relatively little is known on the long termeffects of electromagnetic field exposure, moreresearch is needed in this area.• People who are concerned about thepossibility of harmful effects can reduce theirexposure to RFE by reducing their use ofmobile phones or using a phone model thatgives a low exposure to RFE.• We do not know with any certainty how muchRFE exposure is reduced, if at all, by use ofhands free kits and mobile phone accessoriesthat are said to shield against it.Effects on anxiety levels, sleeplessnessand poor gradesA recent study presented at Sleep 2008 meetingof Associated Sleep Societies found teens whomade more than 15 phone calls and sent morethan 15 text messages in one day slept poorlyand had more careless lifestyles compared withthose who made less than five of each per day.We won’t attempt to analyse “carelesslifestyles” but there are many studies that showteenagers and adults who do not get enoughsleep perform poorly.There is significant peer pressure amongst teensto own a mobile phone.The mobile phone communication can beoverwhelming for some children whileothers start to measure their self worth throughthe number phone calls and texts received.Children will take theirphones into the classroomand text each other ratherthan concentrate on thelesson.Unsolicited textmessaging and bullyingMobile phones can receivespam SMS messages as wellas bullying texts.Inappropriate taking ofimages and videoSchoolyard fights can be

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 32We are at your serviceSeven days a week 6 am to 8 pm44 651 986Fresh fruit andvegetablesFresh meatGreat selection ofBranded grocerylinesMoss Vale Road, Kangaroo Valley

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 33The winning ticket forour promotion washeld by Natalie Innesof Budgong.We would like to thankall of customers fortheir support.Bill and Christine AttardMountain bike winner drawn by MayorShoalhaven City Council MayorGreg Watson was on hand to dothe honours for theFriendly Grocer’sfirst promotions dayin Kangaroo ValleyDon’t forget to comeand check out ourweekly specials.They are good value

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 34Star struckBy Gerard KeyserOnce again it's worthwhile getting astart on your observing as early aspossible in July as the New Moonoccurs on the 3 rd .This means the best conditions forobserving will be happening as yourValley Voice arrives.June has been a bit of a washout with days ofrain or threatening clouds keeping me insideand now the sky is clearing the Full Moon iswashing out the sky in a different manner.As it did last month the Moon guides us tosome very interesting alignments and objects.On July 1 Mars and Regulus are within 1° andon July 10 we should make a special note tolook for Mars and Saturn.Appearing only 0.7° apart.This is less than the width of your fingernail atarms length and both planets will be visible inone field of view in binoculars or low power inyour telescope.For those with telescopes you should try andrecord the positions of Saturn's moons duringthis alignment. Note: Some of the magazinesgive the date of this occurrence as the 11 th sotry both nights.Early in the month Saturn is setting around 9pm and by the end of the month 8 pm.We need to view this beautiful gas giant planetnow as by the end of August Saturn is settingonly half an hour after the Sun.Early in May I observed Saturn in companywith four visitors to the observatory and oneFor Valley Voiceadvertisingplease phone44 651 621ANJON PROFESSIONAL SERVICESMINI DINGO DIGGER HIREMOBILE LOG SPLITTINGJOHN MCKINLEYKANGAROO V ALLEYMOBILE - 0428 610 508A.H. - 4465 1181FAX - 4465 1904lady with especially keen vision could see fourof Saturn's moons.This was an outstanding effort.Jupiter rises at about the same time as the sunsets so it is prime viewing from now untilChristmas.Take a look at the alignment of three moons onthe 2 nd at 7.15 pm, all stacked on top of eachother.Again on July 3 rd at 10 pm, Callisto, Io, andGanymede form a lovely equatorial triangle onone side with Europa visible on the other.This month Jupiter reaches opposition whichmeans it crosses our meridian at midnight.On the 21 st at around 8 pm Io appears frombehind the planet just before Europa begins totransit (go in front).The actual times are 8.13 pm for thereappearance of Io, at 8.42 pm the transit ofEuropa begins and at 9.18 pm the shadow ofEuropa will follow the little moon across.Both the moon and its shadow will be seen fortwo hours until Europa passes the planet.Similar events occur daily, some at excellentviewing times and tables or positional diagramsare published in the better Astronomymagazines as well as our Almanac, Astronomy2008 by Qasar publishing.A bit of an early warning is due here regardingthe only Total Solar Eclipse to occur this year.This eclipse is exclusively a northernhemisphere event but can be viewed “live”through the NASA website.The path of the eclipse goes from northernCanada over to Russia and then culminates inXian, China.The duration will be a maximum of 2 minutesand 27 seconds.It will occur on August 1 so there won't beanother article to give you any moreinformation to prepare.I hope someone is able to photograph theconjunction of Mars and Saturn on the 10 th (orthe 11 th ) and I would be interested in seeinganyone’s efforts.Clear Skies.* MOBILE LOG SPLITTING* CHAINSAW OPERATING* LAWN MOWING* FIREWOOD SUPPLIES* 4 IN 1 BUCKET* TRENCHING* POST HOLE BORING* SOIL LEVELLING* POLY PIPE LAYING* ROTARY HOEING* STUMP GRINDING* ANGLE BLADE* RUBBISH REMOVALDIFFICULT & CONFINED AREAS 1.1 MTR ACCESSThe fuel debate(Continued from page 14)sanctioned price fixing (simple as that). Parityallows fuel companies to sell their products forthe highest current price they find in the AsiaPacific region.It completely disregards supply and demandeconomics and eliminates any need forcompetition amongst themselves.Don’t believe me? Just look at the price ofDiesel.If you remember growing up when Diesel wasalways 10-15c p/l cheaper than Petrol you mightunderstand this more.How can a product that costs far less to produce(partially a by-product of producing Unleadedas well) and a product that Australia uses moreof than any other fuel be MORE EXPENSIVEthan Unleaded?Simple, ring Singapore, where they don’t use alot of Diesel and import all their fuel, find outhow much it’s selling for there and charge thesame here – sound fair? NOT!Any other industry who tried this one would behauled of to the High Court quick smart andprosecuted for price fixing!Oh but hang on, our government ALLOWSthem to do thisNUMBER TWO – BARRELL PRICEThat price the news loves to show us each nightis the PREMIUM GRADE crude oil price.Australian oil companies DO NOT buyPREMIUM GRADE crude oil! In fact Australiaproduces around 70% of its own oil and importsabout 30%. The cost of production per litreproduced here is cheaper than that of importedfuel, but in no way is this factored into the pumpprice, because they don’t need to (SEE PARITYABOVE) we pay a pump price based onPREMIUM GRADE crude oil price the same asif we imported all of it, say somewhere likeSingapore! Starting to get the picture?NUMBER THREE – LEVIESEveryone knows that both State and FederalGovernments take a large slice of the cost of alitre of fuel.This equates in total to about 46% of the priceper litre. This money is used for infrastructure,road trauma etc. etc. so fair enough right?WRONG!What is wrong is that it is a PERCENATGE!Look at this.If a litre of fuel costs $1.00 then theGovernment gets 46c p/l, right?A week later fuel rises to $1.10 p/l; theGovernment gets 50.6c p/l, bingo! Somethingtells me that in one week, their costs, IN NOWAY have gone up 9%!As I stated previously – THE GOVERNMENTHAS A VESTED INTEREST TO KEEP FUELPRICES HIGH. THEY MAKE LOTS MOREFREE MONEY!Why else do they allow fuel companies tomaintain PARITY?If they changed the tax (sorry, levy) to a flat ratetied to the GDP then the fuel price would dropdrastically and immediately!NUMBER FOUR – GST - THE DOUBLEDIPNow this one is outright “THIEVERY” and alsoapplies to cigarettes and alcohol.(Continued on page 43)

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 35KVRFB UpdateSince the last edition of the Valley Voicethe Brigade has been called upon on oneoccasion.The first call came at 9.23am on the fourthJune for Kangaroo Valley and Beaumont torespond to another MVA, but again thedetails were somewhat confusing.The call was to Moss Vale Rd Barrengarry 10kms from Kangaroo Valley.Nothing too unusual about that, however theambulance headed out towards Cambewarra.So as Valley 1 was getting organised to go amember was stopping cars coming fromBarrengarry direction to see if any accident wasseen.With the answer as no, we headed towardsCambewarra with five crew on board, two othermembers turned out at station if required.As we passed the Nelsons farm it was confirmedthat a vehicle had rolled on CambewarraMountain and we were to keep heading thatway.Beaumont brigade had also called on asresponding with five crew on their tanker.We arrived on scene to a single vehicle roll overwith the driver out and unhurt.As police were not there yet we assumed therole of traffic control in the rain and fog.Beaumont arrived on scene and they assistedwith traffic and clearing the road after the policeand tow truck arrived.We returned to our stations at 11.40 am wherewe received a message that there was also, at thesame time, another MVA on BarrengarryMountain which was very minor that theKangaroo Ambulance also attended but did notrequire our help.Although it has been a quiet few months withcallouts the brigade members have been busywith training.We had eight members do the RFS accreditedchainsaw course that entailed two nights theoryat the fire control centre and a day’s practicaldown the south coast near Tomerong.As this course came up quickly only five of themembers were able to attend the practical daywith the others having work commitments andwill do the practical at another time.Computers for wrinklies(Continued from page 31)They are constantly checking their mobilephone for new messages.They leave theirphones on at night and are irritable if they areaway from their phones.Software FixesIn conjunction with Optus mobile phones thereis now a product by LeopardLabs that can be installed on your child’sphone. According to the SydneyMorning Herald 24th June 2008 Leopard clawsinto kids' mobile useParents can control their children's Optusmobile phone usage completely includingwhat websites they can visit, who they cancontact and when they can usethe builtincamera usingnew Australian software.This software is so far only available throughOne member has also done the aviation basicknowledge course (self learning) and theassessment which was a pre course for them tocomplete prior to attending a three day Airbase operator’s course at Mittagong.Craig Winter for KVVRFBOptus Zoo but may be worthchecking out if you are concerned aboutcontrolling mobile phone usage in yourhouse.The “Floppies” ConclusionOur household is happy to be out of touch andbehind the times. We’re happy tohave no mobile reception at all. Occasionallythe two phone junky teenagers willeven talk to us when they stay. Oh such bliss tobe communicating with a 14year old girl!!http://www.childalert.co.uk has someinteresting information about mobilephones and teenage self esteem as well assafety.Mr FloppyFor Valley Voiceadvertising please phone44 651 621GARETH WARD has theenergy andexperience to keep onlistening anddelivering forKangaroo ValleyCampaign OfficePhone: 4421 8973Post: Po Box 55 Bomaderry NSW 2541Email: garethjamesward@gmail.comGARETH WARD: Fighting for Kangaroo ValleyAuthorised by G Ward, 41 Tarawal Street, Bomaderry, Printed by the Kangaroo Valley Voice

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 36NEW LISTINGSAn amazing opportunity—this stunning 4 bedroom homeon 9 acres has deep water frontage to the Kangaroo River,and is surrounded by some of the most picturesque viewsin the Valley.Enjoy the village lifestyle—live the best of village lifestyle inthis 4 bedroom, 2 bathroom home where you can walk toeverything! Stylish use of recycled materials has created alovely welcoming atmosphere.Open Houses in the next monthdelightful Colonial garden style home setting in a2.5 acres onSaturday 5th July—60 Smarts Road, BarrengarrySaturday12th July—234 Upper Kangaroo River Road, Kangaroo ValleySunday 13th July—121B Parrishs Road, Upper Kangaroo ValleySaturday 19th July—234 Upper Kangaroo River Road, Kangaroo ValleySaturday 26th July—121B Parrishs Road, Upper Kangaroo ValleySaturday 2nd August—121B Parrishs Road, Upper Kangaroo ValleyWhat a bargain!Three bedroom home onfive acres, the perfectweekender. Alreadydrastically reduced to$490,000 with the ownersnow looking for offers over$400,000!Stop PressWe have just successfullynegotiated the sale of anarchitect designed home on 50acres for a price in excess of$1.5m. If you would like toknow what your property isworth, please give the salesteam a call.Introducing Sonya LongworthWe would like to introduce Sonya Longworth as the latest addition to our staff. Sonya will beassisting the sales team, and we look forward to her presence allowing us to provide an even higherlevel of service.Sonya has been a local in the Shoalhaven for 28 years. Prior to that she frequented the area regularlyto visit her grandparents farm in Berry, which had been in the family since the late 1800’s. This hasgiven Sonya a vast knowledge of the Shoalhaven as well as a large network of contacts. She is not astranger to Kangaroo Valley either, often dealing with past clients over this side of the hill. She islooking forward to meeting up with locals, and discovering all of Kangaroo Valley’s hidden secrets(ooh, that sounds like she’s into goss doesn’t it?)Ph: 02 4465 1404 165 Main Road Kangaroo Valley NSW 2577 www.kvre.com.au...the leading agent in Kangaroo Valley

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 37An egg a dayMany people will remember when an Aussiebreakfast started with porridge or cereal,usually Weetbix (rice bubbles or cornflakeswere occasional treats). The next course wasa couple of eggs served with bacon, sausagesor chops (or all three). Sometimes mymother cooked up a big pot of mince andvegetables that we had on toast or therewould be baked beans and bacon. Wefinished with toast and butter (nomargarine), Vegemite, honey or home-madejam.As you might expect after eating such a bigbreakfast, few people snacked during themorning. Interestingly, obesity was rare inthose days. The lack of snacks and otherpackaged foods was a factor, but the majorreason why we didn't get fat was that mostpeople were much more active.Many jobs involved physical activity.Housework meant scrubbing floors, washingand wringing clothes by hand, and lots ofironing. My mother walked to the shops eachday to buy the meat for the evening meal.There were no freezers. Even those who hadmore sedentary jobs were quite likely to walkseveral kilometres on their way to work usingpublic transport.And even though it seemed as though we atebig meals, the average total kilojoule intake forthe whole day was marginally less than it istoday.As more women started working outside thehome and cars became the mode of transport(leading to people working farther from homeand traffic delays), a cooked breakfastdisappeared through lack of time.The loss of eggs at breakfast led to a big drop inegg consumption. This was helped by theNational Heart Foundation advising people tokeep eggs to two per week. This advice wasbased on the assumption that the cholesterol ineggs would increase blood cholesterol levels.In fact, the ready-made cholesterol in foods likeeggs is rarely a problem and almost all cases ofhigh blood cholesterol occur because the bodymakes too much cholesterol. The buildingblocks for this process are saturated and transfats.Eggs are not high in saturated fat. In fact, anegg has only about half as much saturated fat asthe polyunsaturated margarine you mightspread on your breakfast toast.Those with diabetes may need to take a littlemore care with eggs. A recent study of 9734American adults found no differences in thelevels of blood fats or the incidence of heartdisease or strokes between those who consumedsix eggs a week and those who had less thanone weekly egg. However, there was anexception in those with diabetes, where highegg consumers had a greater risk of problems.This potential risk in those with diabetes hasby Dr Rosemary Stanton, nutritionistalso been confirmed in two other large studiesthat followed almost 38,000 men for eight yearsand over 80,000 women for 14 years. On theother hand, a Japanese study of over 32,000men and women found no problems in anyparticipants consuming an egg a day. This mayhave been due to the very low content ofsaturated fat in the Japanese diet.Dropping foods high in saturated fat such assausages, bacon and chops from the breakfastmenu was a good thing. In fact, our total meatconsumption in Australia is now about halfwhat it once was and leaner meats are readilyavailable. This has almost certainly contributedto the fact that premature deaths from heartdisease are now half what they were in the1960s.The loss of eggs was an unnecessary casualty.The Heart Foundation has attempted to changethis by giving eggs their Tick of approval.Hopefully, this will remove some of theundeserved stigma from eggs.Increasing consumption of fast foods may alsohave contributed to the fall in egg consumption.There have always been times when peoplewere rushed for a meal. On such occasions, aquick omelette or scrambled eggs were onceused as a substitute for dinner. These days,more people are likely to pick up fast foodinstead.As a result of all these factors, egg consumptionin Australia is about 40 percent less than it wasin the 1970s.The nutritional value of eggsEggs are a good source of many nutrients. Interms of the recommended dietary intake for anaverage adult, two eggs will supply25 percent of proteinmore than 50 percent of vitamin B1280 percent of biotin (one of the B complexvitamins)more than 25 percent of vitamin Amore than 25 percent of riboflavin, niacin,pantothenic acid and folate (all B vitamins)more than 25 percent of the mineralseleniumat least 10% of vitamin E, iron and zinc.One egg offers similar benefits for children.A recent American study of over 27,000 peopleconfirmed that those who included eggs had asignificantly higher daily intake of vitamins A,E and B12. The B12 is important forvegetarians as this vitamin is not found in plantbasedfoods.New researchRecent studies have found that two beneficialpigments in eggs called lutein and zeaxanthinare important for the eye as they canaccumulate in the macula. Maculardegeneration is the major cause of blindness inelderly people so these carotenoids areimportant for older people.When hens have access to fresh greens, thedeep yellow yolks of their eggs indicate ahigher content of these valuable carotenoids.Some hens are also fed marigold flowers toincrease their content of lutein.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 38Kangaroo ValleyGarden GroupOn a rainy Monday morning theGarden Group was lucky enough tovisit Helen and John George’s beautifulgarden and listen to Helen talk about“What flying foxes and echidnas can dofor you and what we can do for them”.Firstly we gathered on their verandah andlistened to a very interesting pottedhistory of flying foxes in Australia(originally they were thought to beintroduced pests) and we learned to lovethem for their contributions to our Valley.Flying foxes are mammals that eat flowers andfruit (hence the name fruit bats) and arewonderful spreaders of rainforest seeds andthey help in the pollination of other plants.They like to concentrate on the blossoms ofeucalyptus and other native trees and bushfruits such as figs from the Moreton Bay Figtree.The female flying fox carries her baby as sheGoing to Sydney or the airport?Going to Canberra?Sporting events in Sydney?Weddings?Formals?Social functions?Special Occasions—up to 20 passengersWine & Garden tours of the Highlands“Anywhere—Anytime”Highlands Chauffeured Hire CarsAre at your service:Garden Group learns some animal facts24 Hours Seven days per weekRing 0400 921 239flies and they like to roost in trees rather thancaves or buildings.Their eyesight is as good as humans’ sight inthe daylight and much better than ours at night.Their camps during the day may have thousandsof inhabitants and our closest one is atJamberoo.Flying foxes do not hibernate so please becareful with the netting of your trees all yearround: use the white knotted net and keep itfirmly tied so that they can’t so easily becometangled as even a slight injury to the webbingbetween their fingers can lead to death.Next we settled in front of a TV so that wecould watch a slideshow presentation on the lifecycle of an echidna, with the platypus theworld’s only monotreme or egg layingmammal.There are only two sorts, one in New Guineaand the one that lives in Australia, where thefurther south it lives the darker and thicker itshair becomes.Our echidnas eat termites in the cool of theearly morning and evening and although it isusually a solitary animal its territory is a largeone. They burrow into soil or shelter underbushes, hollow logs and rocks so please keepthis type of vegetation on your property. Their eggs are leathery and tiny and hatchedoutside the female’s body, like a bird, and whenborn the baby echidna is the size of a jellybean.The mother carries it in a pouch she creates outof a special muscle for about three months.One of the great dangers they face is a lowslungelectric fence so keep the wire above theheight of the echidna’s spikes.Luckily before the rain really pelted down, wewere taken on a tour of Helen’s garden andshown the massive work they are doing toeliminate weeds on a slope.One of my great joys is to also have a look attheir chicken coop and collection of chickens,ducks and geese – an early “Chicken Run”experience.From there it was back to that wide verandahand our lunch, more of a treat this time as Johngenerously opened some wine for us and asHelen had volunteered to have us on herbirthday, there was birthday cake for all.Thank you so much Helen for the wonderfulexperience and the chance to learn more aboutthe creatures that are such an important part ofour Valley life.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 39Madeira VineWalk and Talk –Show and TellAn event is being held at Berry onWednesday, July 9th, from 10 am to showto landcare members, landowners andNatural Resource managers and workersthe high level of success achieved overMadeira Vine during the past 2 years bythe Shoalhaven Landcare Association andits contractor, Kerry Thompson.We will meet outside the Berry School of Artsat 10 am. This walking tour will visit a numberof current Madeira Vine sites along the littlecreek through Berry, in business premises andon farmland and road reserves, before arrivingat about noon at Camp Quality, on WoodhillMountain Road. The total distance walked isabout 3 km, all over flat ground, and should lastfor 2 hours. At Camp Quality, we can reviewthe site of the most extensive Madeira Vineinfestation in the Shoalhaven, while enjoyingsome refreshments and a BBQ lunch.Kerry Thompson, Landcare coordinator of theproject, will lead the walk. The tour will examineboth chemical and non-chemical techniquesand highlight the importance of follow up.Registration is not essential, but helpful forcatering purposes. Please contact me on 44293291 to register your interest.Greg ThompsonAnother Call forBushcare VolunteersThe great growing season we’ve had in theValley has seen an explosion in the number andsize of weeds – including in the areas where wehave spent a lot of time re-establishing nativehabitat to replace vast areas of privet.We need helpers who can spend two hours amonth clearing growth from small trees that arestruggling to compete. Once established, thesenew plantings will look after themselves andgrow to provide enough cover to reduce weedgrowth and allow other native plants to flourish.Our main area of activity is on the river bank ofRiverside Park (behind the tennis courts), andupstream (around the netball court and beyond).We want to consolidate the great work that hasnow been going for ten years, and extend it inboth directions along the river.We plan to meet there for an hour or so everysecond and fourth Monday (that will be 14thand 28th of July) around 10am, so if you wouldlike to join in, give me a call on 4465 1688.Peter StantonNationalTree DayPlantingWorkshopsThe Environment Group will be hostingtwo tree-planting working bees over thenext month.The first is on Friday, July 25th, from1.30 pm to 3.30 pm at Riverside Park(behind the tennis courts) Broughton St,Kangaroo Valley. We will be joined by aclass of students from Kangaroo ValleyPublic School to start work on “PlatypusWalk”. All helpers would be welcome –particularly members of KV Tourist Association(project joint-sponsors) and anyparents of the students.The second working bee is on Saturday2nd August at Hampden Bridge (southside of the bridge below the car park).Major plantings here will replace the lantanaand privet jungle.Please make a note of these dates and joinus for an educational, relaxing and productivecouple of hours.Greg ThompsonWork to savenative fishnot helpingnative animalsTallowa Dam Road residents are veryconcerned about the large increase inanimal deaths on the road since workcommenced on the Fishlift.Speed seems to be a major factor. I havebeen down to see Nick Foldes, theEnvironmental Manager of the site, he hasrequested that if anyone spots someonedriving recklessly or with unnecessaryspeed to take down their number plate andpass it on to him. The individual will bedealt with accordingly.So keep an eye out and if you see someonedriving too fast at dusk or dawn ordangerously at any time, contact Nick on:9414 32800434 603 623or email: nick.foldes@leicon.com.au.Victoria McIntyre

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 40Level 2 bushwalkers explore The GrottoOnce again, in the face of storm cloudsand light rain when we left the Valley,Level 2 bushwalkers bravely faced theelements and explored the lovely Grottotrack along the northern bank of theShoalhaven River.The day turned out to be windy and cold,but sunny.What beautiful conditions to view the riverfrom the four lookouts along Yurunga Reserve.We took our bearings at the first lookout, fromwhere you can see the Nowra bridge and thenwalked the grotto loop, which involves a steepzigzig path down rock steps for about 45metres to the bank.Once down, there is a largegrassy patch where a farm andorchard were situated in the1920s.John Hanson with his wifeAnnie and ten children farmedthe land here and we couldstill find some persimmontrees and a lemon tree,although it was too hard to seethe remaining grape vines, asthey would have been leafless.Their main access was by boatbut they also had a woodenladder to climb up to the top ofthe hill we had just come down. By the river are the remains oftheir water tank and the house.The walk is named after theenormous cave opposite inwhich John had his workshopwhere today you can see thewonderful rock formations thathave been formed overthousands of years by the windand rain.We had our morning tea hereand then climbed up the hill tocontinue the walk.Fran had obtained permissionfor us to walk through theAboriginal Reserve, so we wereable to do another loop, calledthe Waratah Walk, before lunch.This involved a short section along the road tothe end of Yurunga Drive where we crossedover the paddocks belonging to the water skipark and back to the track beside the river.This walk is through a beautiful rain forest withenormous birds’ nest ferns, small streams, cavesand wonderful views of the escarpment.Along the way there is even a sandy beach bythe river with large rock formations, well worththe extra kilometres.The walk was about 8 kilometres in all and onan easy track, with just the steep sections toreach the riverbank.We ate lunch at the end of the trek on theconveniently placed picnic table with a view ofthe Shoalhaven through the trees.If this sort of morning sounds delightful to you,why not join us on our next bushwalk.Lee SharamMARK WINCH101 MOUNT SCANZI ROADKANGAROO VALLEY NSW 2577FIREWOODUTE LOAD * TRUCK LOADTREE REMOVALSMOBILE AXE SPLITTERPH. (02) 44 65 1448 MOB. 0432 223 571

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 41Something old and something blueThe Nostalgia Factory is alwaysproducing new items scoured fromauction rooms and private dispersalsfrom around Australia.Each month another new corner of the treasuretrove reveals an amazing selection ofemphemera and mementos of past times.The proprietors of the Nostalgia Factory arelooking forward to the first winter festivalwhen their shop will remain open, like therest of the retailers until 8 pm.And you never know, some real old timersmight turn up!Buskers are welcomeAh Ha!Look what Ihave foundin K.V.Newthisarrivalsmonth!surprises bargainsAntiques, gifts,collectibles, old books,antique furniture,jewellery, etc. etc.44 651 022The Nostalgia FactoryFrom the village drive across the famousHampden Bridge to see an amazing range ofPotteryHampdenAustralianaCottage CraftGift ware and furniture4465 1350The nostalgia factory167 Moss Vale Rd K. V.44 651 022For gifts, antiques, old books, ephemera, records,children’s clothes, jewellery, Spencer & Rutherfordladies handbags, old post cards, etc. etc.Plus some lovelyantique furniturefor saleOpen 7 daysStationery: Office—School—HomeCards & wrapGiftsCash out: over 70 financial institutionsWe appreciate your local support44 651 199K. V. Post OfficeSculpturesWatercolours, oilsK. V. Landscapes44 651 621Open 10-4 pm dailyThe Gallery 149 Moss Vale Rd

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July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 43Tennis competitions decidedThe K. V. Autumn tennis competition finished in JuneThe A Grade (above) shows the runners-up on the left; Skip Chittick,Ross Butler, John George and Sue Greer (both kneeling).The winners are on the right; Vicki McIntyre, Gavin Chittick, JoshTynan (sub for Hamish Gorman), Annmarie O'Rourke..The B Grade photo (above) shows the runners-up on the left;Peter Stanton, Yvonne Ferguson, Dianne McNamee and Dion Larkins.The winners are on the right; Tim Walden, Kellie Gomez, Peter Wilson,Michael Walker.Fuel for thought(Continued from page 34)GST = Goods and Services Tax, correct?46% or 46c in every dollar in the price of a litreof fuel is TAX (sorry; again, LEVY).What part of LEVY is a good or a service?YOU CANNOT TAX, TAX RIGHT?WRONG!You do the math.Say fuel costs $1.00 p/l – the GST component =9c But hang on a minute 46% or 46c of this isTAX! i.e., 4.14c of the GST is ILLEGALLYCHARGED ON THE TAX COMPONENT!Not much you say?FOR EVERY LITRE SOLD IN AUSTRALIAEVERY DAY!That equates to millions of free dollars for theGovernment! I’ll say it one more time - THEGOVERNMENT HAS A VESTED INTERESTTO KEEP FUEL PRICES HIGH. THEYMAKE LOTS MORE FREE MONEY!The GST on fuel should be 5.4% not 10%. At$1.75 p/l this would drop the current price byaround 8c p/l.Feeling a little annoyed?You should be!Even without disbanding parity and introducingreal competition among fuel companies, youshould be paying about 40c less per litre!My name is Graeme Strempel,(gusto1@arach.net.au) and I run a smalltransport business, I happily welcome anyone,Government and fuel companies included toprove me wrong.If you feel strongly about this issue then passthis missive on to everyone in your addressbook.Eventually someone might take notice.Contributions from our readers.If you would like to share similar stories,thoughts, ideas or photographs with thecommunity, just emailkvvoice@shoal.net.au

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July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 45The schools of Kangaroo Valley(Continued from page 16)The rate had been set for schools in the area andthe Inspector had recommended that the samefees apply to all schools to avoid ill feeling.There was enough of that for the beleagueredWattamolla teacher, so he resigned in July 1879and moved to ‘Eagles Nest’ with his family, fora quieter life.Following Albert Barrett was Fred Cole and heremained in the position when the school waselevated to Public status, in 1880.The new Wattamolla Public School had agentler history.In response to population changes, it operated invarious modes, from Half-Time withBellawongarah, five days a fortnight andProvisional.Until 1898, the post office was also at theschool and the teacher performed postalduties twice a week, for ten pounds a yearpayment.From 1931-1950 Wattamolla remained a fulltime Public school.Masters from 1870 were: Charles Abbott, AlbertBarrett, Fred Cole, John Collis, William Cork,Alex Mc Phee, Alice Jones, Henry Brown andEdward Robertson.James Perkins followed him in 1893 and theschool became Half-Time with Bellawongarahfor a year and then had Provisional status, withMary Bower, until the end of 1894.New Year saw an increase in enrolments and theschool became Public from 1895 to when EmilyPrice finished her term in 1916, then it closed.Children had correspondence lessons or weretransported to adjacent schools by their parents.The closing of some bush schools during theyears of WW1 was indicative of thedisproportionate number of men and womenthat were then entering the teachingprofession.In 1920, Wattamolla re-opened as Half-Timewith Bellawongarah and under the guidance ofCharles Jay, John Thomson and Edmund Streetremained in that capacity until May 1927.For eighteen months it was Half-Time withWoodhill and then became a ProvisionalSchool. Edmund Street weathered both thesetransitions before handing over to John Sproulein January 1931.Five more teachers were to serve at the schoolbefore it closed at the end of 1950.They were, Eric Laird, Frederick Holt, SnowdenHavercraft, Francis Noonan and AlexanderScardoni.Bellawongarah closed in 1944 after seventyyears: Mr Davis was the last teacher.Woodhill, which had opened in 1876, closed thesame year.For this information and the anecdotes I amindebted to Malcolm and Heather Barrett.Also to Janella and Pat Barrett who still live inthe area.Pat’s grandfather was Albert Barrett and hisfather Bill and Uncle Matthew inherited the‘Eagle’s Nest’ farm when Albert died in 1908.They sold it in 1918 to Thomas Jarrett, whoseproperty ‘Cedar Grove’ was adjoining and thename was changed to ‘Roselands’.The old Provisional School building is stillthere, as is the private residence that was onceWattamolla Public School.BELLAWONGARAHThis outpost of the Valley on the road toBerry had the same difficulties as otherremote areas in their quest for satisfactoryschooling for their children.Conditional approval was given for aProvisional School in 1874 and Elizabeth Yateswas appointed in 1875.Alfred Martin and Bartholomew Smithfollowed her and John Brennan came next in1885.For the next four years the numbers were notconstant and neither were the teacher.Thomas Hickey, George Paull, John Jarvie eachserved a year.In 1889, James Perkins was appointed and histenure was Half-Time with Wattamolla untilmid 1894.Bellawongarah was granted Public Schoolstatus after that and Harry Jamieson was incharge.However he died three years later and wassucceeded by George Elliott, Leslie Cotter,Allyn Glynn, William Bullock and WilliamShield.The year was 1910, and William Shield settledin for ten years service, but by 1920, the schoolwas Half-Time again with Wattamolla.From then until its closure, this school sharedteachers with other schools of similar status inthe area: Woodhill, Budgong Gap andWattamolla.Kangaroo TalesBy Joan BrayThe succession of hard working part-timeeducators were Charles Jay, John Thomson,Edmund Street, Edward Bolus, DavidChapman, William Hansen, Alex Scardoni andEdward DavisThe school closed in July 1944 and thebuilding was demolished in June 1951.THE ABORIGINAL SCHOOL -1890There were some aboriginal families still livingin the Valley after the early settlers came in the1860’s.The Berrima tribe lived near Trimbles Creek,where there is still a sharpening stone; and theother, along the Sawyers Creek past where theShowground is today.The government had built huts for thefamilies and they mingled and traded withthe settlers but did not send their children tothe local school.In 1890, Hugh Anderson, with the support ofthe community, set up a small school outsidethe village, but this was not successful andclosed within a year.Most of the aboriginal families moved to theShoalhaven River.Decline in population and the advent of motortransport were responsible for the closure ofthe ‘bush schools’, by the 1950’s.Some of the school buildings are now privateresidences; some have faded into history,marked only by the twin pines so lovinglyplanted by the children of a previousgeneration.My thanks to the staff at the ShoalhavenLibrary, the Education Department and theKangaroo Valley Historical Society for theopportunity to consult historical records.News items please tokvvoice@shoal.net.auor 44 651 621J. T. Rebbeck - Earthmoving Contractor4465 1329 Mobile 0414 744 258For Valley Voiceadvertisingplease phone44 651 621Reliable service,excellent equipment, competitive quotes.

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 46Last month I reported the results of theMajor Pairs game between the Phil“Jingles” Chittick / Nathaniel Johnsteam and the Adam Rigney / NathanJones team.This game was actually the final and thenew Major Pairs champions are “Jingles”and Nathaniel – congratulations!It’s all ahead full steam with action on the rinksin Kangaroo Valley as the Major Singles eventsunfolds.I also reported that Col Good forfeited his gamewith Dave Rebbeck Jnr. but Col Condon hispartner in crime actually forfeited - Chinesewhispers lived up to their reputation.Col Good , last years champion, recently playedPhil “Jingles” Chittick and it was all in thefavour of Jingles winning convincingly.Next year maybe for Col.Dave Rebbeck Jnr. came up against new comerRon Burcher, who has been in devastating formon the practice days.This match showed Dave asserting his authorityearly and although Ron gave a gallantperformance he went down to Dave 31-9.Darryl Goodger was the next in the singles upagainst Dave Rebbeck Jnr.Darryl was still carrying his great form from theValley Guideto eatingoutMediterraneanCafé Bella44 651 660ThaiJing Jo44 651 969A taste for all palatesJack’s Coffee Houseand Eatery44 652 796Value—service anda good choice it’s all here inKangaroo Valley.you wont want to leave.The Sports Reportpennants season and made it tough for Dave toshine this time with Darryl winning 31-20.Darryl Goodger was next against KevinBaskcomb who was a member of the winningmajor fours team.Darryl shot to a great lead 30- 22 when Kevinwith his never say die attitude began to claw hisway back into the game.Phil Chittick and Nathaniel Johns the newMajor Pairs ChampionsKevin on the final end was behind 28-30 andholding three winning shots within a foot of thejack.Darryl having the final bowl let it go andnestled his bowl on the jack stealing the game31-28.Kevin still can’t believe his bad luck.Len Hughes is back fit and well and came upagainst young-gun Peter Chittick.This game had the experience shining throughand Len taking the victory 31-20.Nathaniel Johns played the wily Bob Holdawaybut Nathaniel dominated the play winning 31-9,hoping to continue his great form in futuregames.On the public holiday the weather still held outfor more games to play and for the third year ina row Lance Brown was drawn against anotheryoung-gun Nathan Jones in the first round –Nathan won both previous encounters.The lead swapped regularly through until Lancesnatched a four pointer giving him somebreathing space.Lady luck seemed to shine Lance’s way as bothplayers produced some of their best shots of theyear.Another four pointer helped push Lance to awinning result with the final score being 31-20.Unfortunately for Lance half an hour later hehad to play the next round against NathanielJohns as the players schedule was tight.Lance started off well with a 5 points lead andthen the both players shared the glories onalternate ends.Nathaniel seemed to hold greater consistencythroughout and after a great game ended upwinning 31-22.Lance is now having a well-earned rest.Nathaniel’s next opponent was “Jingles” whichhas been billed a cracker.As the two of them normally team-up in thepairs it was time for every man for himself.Both players have a great array of shots whichthey used to great effect against one another.After a see-sawing battle it was the young gunNathaniel who edged his nose in front at theright time to win 31-30, ending the winning runof Jingles, his mentor.Tim Kelly has been one of the most devastatingbowlers in the valley for years with an enviedrocket drive in his arsenal which has broughtmany an opponent to tears.Tim defeated Jack Rollasson in a closeencounter and then came up against Geoff“Tige” Lidbetter who recently dusted off hisbowls after a five month lay-off due to injury.The mighty Tige has been hungrier than ever tostrut his stuff on the green and both players(Continued on page 47)Berry VetsinKangaroo ValleyConsultations between 10 and 12 am Tuesday(House calls available after 12 noon)Consultation by appointmentPlease phone: 4464-1899Address: 11 Rectory Park Way, Kangaroo Valley

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 47Kangaroo Valley Men’s singles and moreThe Semi-finals of the Major Singles wasplayed on a heavy track on the weekendof 14 th June – travelling at a best speedof around 12 seconds.In the first game the big come-backcontinued for Geoff ‘Tige” Lidbetteragainst the last of the young gunsNathaniel Johns.In this encounter the consistency of Nathanielwas ever present creating constant pressure onTige to produce his best each time.Unfortunately for Tige,Nathaniel did not lose his momentum andTige’s shoulder injury which put him out of thegame for almost six months was aggravatedduring the encounter and Nathaniel ending upstorming home to win 31-14.Adam Rigney and Lenny Hughes also playedtheir semi-final on the weekend making themost of the glorious sunshine after the lastweek’s moisture.Adam was still in devastating form and didn’tlet Lenny into the game taking the honours 31-10. Lenny assured me that will be back againnext year.The final between Adam Rigney and NathanielJohns drew a keen crowd, as the best in theclub battled for the honour of taking the 2008Men’s Singles title.The game kicked off under the midday sun andAdam immediately took command jumping to a10 -1 lead.Nathaniel settled back into the hard slog ofchasing Adam and finally were even 16 all.The game see-sawed until thescores were locked at 22all, then the race to reach 31 towin suddenly raised the bloodpressure and concentration tohigher levels.Adam cooly controlled theplay and began to notch upmore winning ends until hefinally claimed victory with ascore of 31-25.A remarkable dispay by both players whoreceived a standing ovation from the localgallery.The South Coast District Triples competition,had the trio of Phil ‘Jingles’ Chittick, AdamRigney and Nathaniel Johns representing thevalley.After victories in earlier elimination rounds thetrio made the semi-finals which they played onSunday 22 nd June at Culburra.The valley boys were up against a crack teamfrom Huskisson and each team put it to theother so much so, that it was a draw on the finalend, requiring an extra end for a decider.Nathaniel was instrumental in delivering thewinning shot to score 31-30.There was no rest after the victory and the finalwas to be played against the Lake Conjola trio.The game was a see-sawing battle with bothteams swapping the lead throughout.The last two ends remained and the score was20-20.The Lake Conjola team then ended the dreamrun of Kangaroo Valley by snatching five shotsNathaniel Johns, Phil Chittick and Adam Rigney leading bowlersover the last two ends and claiming the Triplescrown.Jingles, Adam and Nathaniel although runnersup,were still over the moon to compete in thefinal and against so many great teams and arelooking forward to the same again next year.The Bias One.(Continued from page 46)threw everything at each other except theirbowls bags in the encounter.On the final end Tim led 30 -28 and Tigemiraculously pulled out a great three pointer tosteal the honours 31-30.One of the last games before the semi-finals isAdam Rigney against the experiencedcampaigner Lenny Hughes.Although favouritism sways towards Adamwith his recent form Lenny has been known totopple several giants of the green before.The Bias One

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 48Them what whispers down the well,About the goods they ‘ave to sell,Will not make as many dollars,As thems wot climbs up trees an’ ‘ ollers.Eccles ElectricalPh 44651037 email: . chamalon@westnet.com.au*All Electrical jobs including- domestic and commercial*Refrigeration/Air-con*Plus Pump Repairs~Emergency Service Available~The Village Green NurseryPot Plant to Paddock—Natives, Exotics, Fruit and Ornamentaltrees, Tubestock, windbreaks and HedgingNEW SEASON FRUIT AND ORNAMENTAL TREES AND ROSES IN NOWPh/fax 44 651 533 Janet or Darrenfor helpful service and advice“council carpark” Kangaroo Valley, open 7 daysMiss Shelleys Flower Shopshop 1/98 queen street Berry, (behind newsagents)bh.02 4464 3674 mob. 0422 687 854Innovative, Creative, Original and TraditionalFlowering HoursMonday to Saturday 8.30 am - 5.30 pmSunday and public holidays 10-4 pmPaulQualifiedObernTree SurgeonArboristwith 10 yearsServicesExperienceTree Reductions, Section Felling, Felling, Dead Wooding, FireCallReductionPaul Tel:Clearing,0244651391 Thinning,orMulching,Mobile No.Dangerous0403610 Trees236Removed – all sizesFree quotes—Competitive Prices Kangaroo Valley AreaArchie's Artistic Services44652135Sculptured Environments in the landscapeWaterfeatures - Fountains - Garden structuresMosaic and Tile workSculptures - Figure - Wildlife - AbstractDRYDEN PLUMBING SERVICESPlumber, Drainer GasfitterOffering FREE "Your watersaver local 'easy shower being heads green' & energy Tradesman."with any callout. efficient light globesCall Mark or MargoPhone 44651503 Mobile 0413 99 1080Lic. No. 11234

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 49MIKE & CATHY GORMAN Electrical Installations – Home/Business Smoke detectors, Surge protectors, Safety switches Garden and Entertainment lightingMobile: 0427651540Phone: 44651540Fax: 446515591005 Wattamolla Rd Wattamolla, 2535Lic No. 46822C ABN 76 031 101 072Massage TherapistKaren Palmer DRM0417 407 212Health ATMS fund accredited rebatesDeep tissue, remedial, relaxation and pregnancy treatments availableMondayAmbulance Gift(all day),Tuesdays,station vouchers community availableWednesdayscomplexand SaturdaysKangaroo Valley SecurityRegular and casual patrols ofproperties and premisesAlarm responses – Security signageStatic guardingSales of alarms and associated equipmentFully licensed security operative servicing the ValleyPh 44 651 659 Mob: 042 865 1659Master Licence No: 407376632KANGAROO VALLEYPHYSIOTHERAPYDoug MoorePhysiotherapistMobile: 0439 401 120Email: Thevalleyphysio@hotmail.comKV Ambulance Station, MondaysIan McLeanPhone 4464 3267Mobile 0427 643 267“KANGAROO VALLEY” WATER CARTAGELOCALLY OWNED DOMESTIC WATER CARRIERSCall us for all your:1: domestic water needs2: swimming pool fills or top ups3: when installing septic tanks or water tanks4: roadwork or driveway wet downs5: any other of your bulk water requirementsDomestic and small rubbish removalCraig & Donna: 4465-2170 or 0421 857207KANGAROO VALLEYPLUMBING SERVICESLee Dale:Tel 0405 224043Licence No: 158073C24 hours—7 Days Emergency Service15 years experienceSame dayhot water system replacement

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 50Community grants open(Continued from page 7)Promote the development and implementation of a range ofcommunity based projects that achieve the Goals of the ShoalhavenCommunity Plan 2005-2010Encourage a supportive approach to innovative community programsthat address identified community needsAssist in the range of innovative Community Development ProgramsFacilitate equitable distribution of community resources throughout theShoalhavenComplement Shoalhaven City Council’s mission to enhance Shoalhaven’sCommunity, Economy and Environment through good government, publicinvolvement and innovative use of our resources.For more information on the grants and the ShoalhavenCommunity Plan seehttp://shoalhaven.nsw.gov.au/community/community%20grants.pdf.PROFESSIONAL CERTIFIED LOCAL NAIL TECHNICIANCREATIVE ANDI.B.DQuality full setfrom $55THE NAIL GYPSYDeluxe Manicure, Pedicure and Spatreatments. French polish orpermanent French tips in acrylic or gel.9.30 am-1 pm Mon to Fri.Some evenings also available.44652422 or0419 921652BookingsessentialThis spacecould be yours!For detailsplease call44 651 621Shaun Canavan9d Meroo RoadBomaderry.NSW. 2541Ph: (02) 44210205Mob: 0400359669

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 51Claim the date!September 6 KV School Trivia NightWot’s on in the ValleySpecial events July 2008September 12—14 K. V. Folk FestivalMay 1-3, 2009 Kangaroo Valley Arts Festival.July 4July 5July 12National Braille Concert MittagongOpening of the Shoalhaven Entertainment CentreKVTA Kangaroo Valley Winter FestivalOrganisations are invited to use this page to claim the datefor any events they are planning, so as to avoid doubling upand clashes with other groups.Monthly eventsMon (1st) KV Rural Fire Service meeting – 7.30 pm – Fire Shed – David Smart 4465 1214Mon (2nd) Senior Citizen’s Meeting - 10.15 am – Kangaroo Valley Bowling Club.Mon (2nd) Environment Group – 6 pm – The Ambulance Community Complex –Peter Stanton 4465 1688Mon (3rd) A & H Meeting – 7.30 pm - K.V. Hall – Betty Allan 4465 1154Tues (1st) CWA 10 am to 12, 12 Speaker, 12.30 pm Combined Luncheon,1 pm to 2.15 pm MeetingTues (2nd) Pre School MeetingTues (3rd) Pioneer Museum Park Trust 10-00 am Elaine Apperley 4465 2026Tues (3rd) KV Historical Society 1 pm Garth Chittick 4465 1367Thurs (2nd)Fri (2nd)P. & C. Meeting – – KV SchoolView Club Gen Meeting & Luncheon – 12 pm – Source at KangarooSat (last) Brogers Creek Landcare – Andrew or Liz 4465 1482Sat (3rd) Upper Kangaroo Valley Landcare, meet at UpperKangaroo Valley Hall 9-11 am Contact Tess Heighes 4422 7147Sundays 8-30 am Traditional service Anglican Church 4465 158510 am Contemporary service Anglican Church 4465 1585School holidays 9-30 am service onlySun (last) Fishing Club Competition day – Harold Sharman 4465 1140Bi-weekly eventsTuesday (2nd & 4th) Lions Club – 7 pm Carolyn Green 4465 1384Thursday (1st & 3rd) Men’s Group 7.30 pm - Bob Dunn 4465 1056Weekly eventsMon – Fri Bus Service to Nowra and Highlands- 4423 5990Mon –Tues-Thurs-Fri Mass St. Joseph’s 11 amMon Bingo – 5 pm KVB&RCMon 1-3 pm Women's Bible StudyAnglican Hall 44651585Tues Men's Bowling - noon, CasualContact Club 4465 1175 leave nameTues 10-12 & 6-8 Iyenga Yoga 44 651 364Tues 8 pm Meditation Groupph 0427 383 645Tues Cuppa & kids Sunday School Hall10amWed Mass St Joseph’s 6-20 amWed Rural Fire Service Training at Shed6pmWed 6-8 pm Iyenga yoga contact 44Thurs6513645 pm Golf CroquetExercise Class 9-15 am KV HallWalking group P.O. 10 amThurs 1-3 pm Women's Care & share -Anglican Hall 44651585SatSunSunSun1 pm Social Bowls KV BowlingClubBowling Club - 'Barefoot Bowls'From 1 pmAnglican Church8-30 am Traditional service10 am Contemporary service andSunday SchoolMass - St. Joseph’s Church, 11 am*The Kangaroo Valley Voice is delivered free to all house and land holders within the mountain boundaries of the Valley*Subscription to the Voice is available at a cost of $36 per yearOur data base of addresses needs to be updated regularly so if your address is incorrect please let us know.Please tick the appropriate box: I AM A NEW RESIDENTI HAVE PURCHASED PROPERTYSUBSCRIPTION - (Cheque or Money Order only thank you)CHANGE OR ALTER ADDRESSYour Mailing Address:-Name _________________________________________________________________Address _______________________________________________________________________________________________Post Code__________K.V. Voice Office:- Pioneer Farm, Kangaroo Valley 2577. Phone (02) 4465 1621If you wish to advertise, have a story to tell, or know of any item you feel would be of interest to our readers we would love to hear from you

July 2008 Kangaroo Valley Voice Page 52SCHOOLS & CHURCHESPreschool Jacinta Powell 4465 1327Public School Mark McCarthy 4465 1182P & C Dougall Blanch 4465 1182Scots College Ian Boyle 4465 1089Anglican Church 4465 1585Sunday School Irene Dunn 4465 1056Cuppa and kids Jane Gripper 4465 2017Catholic Church Anne Dynon 4464 1910Uniting Church John Brentnall 4464 1034CHARITIES & SERVICE GROUPSCMR Institute Isabel Butler 4465 1248Lions Tony Barnett 4465 1800V.I.E.W. Club Betty Allan 4465 1154C.W.A. Gwen Nelson 4443 3409Amnesty Int. Libby Turnock 4465 1357Environment Pamela Davis 4465 2285Wires 4862 1788EMERGENCIESPolice 13 1444 or 4421 9699Ambulance 000Poisons 13 1126Integral Energy 13 1003Lifeline 13 1114Fire 000SPORTS & EXERCISECanoe Club Graeme Mounsey 4465 1597Cricket Club Greg Thompson 4465 1531Croquet Club Heather Kelly 4465 1608Fishing Club Vinnie Winch 4465 1448Golf Club John Rose 4464 2384Ladies Bowling Margery Good 4465 1341Men’s Bowling Phillip Chittick 4465 1035Pony Club Sharon Selby 4465 1186Tennis Club Nigel Lewis 4446 0638Group Secretaries - please check & update detailsAGES & STAGESCubs/Scouting Cathy Gorman 4465 1540Senior Citizens Bez McKenzie 4465 1873OTHER ORGANISATIONSA & H Society Betty Allan 4465 1154Alcholics Anonymous Rick 4465 1113Brogers Creek Landcare Andrew 4465 1482Historical Society Garth Chittick 4465 1367FYRE Karen Harrison 4465 1699K.V.C.A.. Tony Barnett 4465 1800KV Garden Group Lee Sharam 4465 1756KVRFB Captain David Smart 4465 1214Iyengar Yoga Rose Andrews 4465 1364Osborne Park/Hall J. Lenz 4465 1272Pioneer Museum Elaine Apperley 4465 2026Rock-Wallaby Melinda Norton 4887 8256Tourist Assn Sue Foster 4465 1165Upr/Rvr Prog Assn D. Loneragan 4465 1364If undelivered please return to :-KANGAROO VALLEY VOICEC/O POST OFFICE, KANGAROO VALLEY 2577The monthly communitynewspaper of Kangaroo ValleySURFACE MAILPOSTAGE PAID AUSTRALIAPRINT POST No.201494/00039